Windows XP problem!

[JonDee]

I hope that this is the right forum for this problem. I have a Dell Dimension 8200 Computer and I can't seem to find any help with this through Dell Support. I am using Windows XP Home edition and can't get some of the things to work as they should. A couple of days ago, I installed a DSL modem will Alltel and that is working real well. I am trying to install a Linksys Router Mod. # BEFSX41 and when I go to the step that concerns Local Area Connection and click on Properties, I get a problem. It reads Windows Explorer has encountered a problem and needs to close. Thats as far as I can get with. What could be the problem and what can be done to correct it? I certainly would appreciate any help on this. You folks are so wonderful. Thanks, John

[Tuf]

What kind of DSL modem do you have?

Is it internal or is it an external ethernet modem?

[JonDee]

Tuf, It is an external ethernet modem. The name is Speed stream and is the one that Alltel supplied and is working great. My problem appears to be with Windows XP, not this modem. Even with this modem removed from my computer, I still have that problem with getting into the properties of my local connection.

[Tuf]

I think the first thing I would do is try a repair install, if the disc Dell provided will allow for it.

Just boot up with your XP CD like you want to reinstall and pass the first time it asks if you want the recovery console. It will find your current installation and ask if you want to repair it, select yes.

If that doesn't work post back, I'll bet we can figure out something.

[sdkfz]

as an aside, I have two machines both w a version of win xp, toshiba Cable modem, and the linksys 8 port router. I messed around for over an hour with cloning address' etc and finally in frustration reset the router completly (there is a recessed button on the rear) hooked up the cables and rebooted, both xp boxes immediately hooked up and except for going in to change the router password I left it alone. works great.

for you and your situation, is this a dell copy of XP or your own (meaning is this a copy dell customized?), maybe we can make a fix with a 'good' copy of xp or am I totally off base here if it is a dell xp

in the meantime can you do a repair install?

[JonDee]

Tuf, Thanks for getting back to me on this so quickly. When I put that CD into the drive, a screen comes up and has 4 selections on it and none of asks if I want the recovery console. The 4 selections are 1. Install Windows XP, 2. Install optional windows components, 3. Perform additional tasks, 4. Check system compatibility. Thanks in advance.

[JonDee]

sdkfz, Thanks for your relay. I'm pretty sure that my copy of XP came installed by the Dell folks and is their copy of it. How do you do a repair install anyway? Thanks

[Tuf]

Chose #1 - Install Windows

It will go through several system checks before it actually does anything, but as always back up your valuable data before starting.

[JonDee]

Guys, I chose install windows and What do I choose next?

[not important]

Let CD start as if it is new install
At the "Welcome to Setup" screen DO NOT choose to repair windows using "Recovery Console"
Instead, press ENTER to start the Windows setup
When you come to screen that lists your current Windows install, select it from list and press "R" key to start repair.

[JonDee]

Thanks for all the help. I re-installed Windows XP and now can get into the properties of the local connection. But now, when I try to install the router and plug it up to the modem, my moden wont connect to the internet. Read directions that came with router and tried to follow them to the letter, but I cant connect to the web. So do you think I should contact the Alltel Tech. and see what they suggest?

[Tuf]

Can you connect with the router and see the set up screen?

I looked on Alltel website and I couldn't tell if they use PPPoE like most companies do or not. If they do you won't need any connection software they have have provided. The router will actually connect for you.

Have you entered your user name and password in the router?

When you say your modem won't connect, do you mean you can't get on the internet or that the modem's indicator light are not illuminating?

[LocoCoyote]

Your DSL modem should operate independant of the operations system. At least mine do. But then again I am hooked up over ISDN with a DSL splitter.
I have the same model router and I had the same problem with connecting (first with the router setup then with the net) with Win XP home. I messed with it for hours. Gave up and installed a copy of XP Pro. Everything just started working. I am still researching this, because it bothers me to no end not knowing what went wrong and what fixed it!!!

I'll let you know if I find out anything useful.