Troubleshooting Internet Connection for Multiple Devices | Linksys Switch Setup

[NeoDevin]

I currently have 2 computers (laptop running ubuntu, desktop running vista) connected to the internet, through a "Linksys 5-port workgroup switch", which my cable modem is also plugged into (my internet gives me 2 IP's, so I don't need an additional router). This arrangement works perfectly, no problems on either system.

I just bought a new laptop with xp (Not state of the art), and am having trouble connecting with it. I unplugged the desktop and plugged that cable into the new laptop, and get the "Little or no connectivity" message. I try "ipconfig -release" "ipconfig -renew", after the renew command it says: "unable to contact your DHCP server."

I tried googling it, and found a couple of proposed solutions that didn't work for me:
Resetting the TCP/IP stack with "netsh int ip reset"
Checking to ensure DHCP is enabled in "Administrative tools"->"Services"

Anyone have any idea what could be the problem? I know it's not the internet connection, the switch, or any of the cables, since it works perfectly when plugged into the desktop (and I am posting this from my old laptop).

Thanks in advance.

Edit: The newer laptop has XP Service Pack 2, I'm installing SP3 right now to see if that helps.

 

[NeoDevin]

Never mind. I rebooted the cable modem and it worked.

 

[quicknote]

I would first suggest checking the network settings on the new laptop to ensure that it is set up correctly for your network. This includes checking the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway settings. It is possible that the laptop is not receiving a valid IP address from the DHCP server, which could be causing the issue.

If the network settings are correct, I would suggest checking the network adapter on the new laptop to make sure it is functioning properly. This can be done by running a diagnostic test or checking for any driver updates.

It is also possible that there could be an issue with the DHCP server itself. I would recommend contacting your internet service provider to see if they can assist with troubleshooting the DHCP server.

Another potential solution could be to try manually assigning an IP address to the new laptop instead of relying on DHCP. This can be done by going into the network settings and selecting "Use the following IP address" and entering in a valid IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway.

Overall, it is important to systematically troubleshoot the issue by checking each component of the network and ruling out any potential problems. If the issue persists, it may be necessary to seek assistance from a professional IT technician.