Troubleshooting Internet Connection for Multiple Devices | Linksys Switch Setup

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on troubleshooting internet connectivity issues for a new laptop running Windows XP, connected through a Linksys 5-port workgroup switch. The user experienced "Little or no connectivity" errors despite successful connections with other devices. Initial troubleshooting steps included releasing and renewing the IP address and resetting the TCP/IP stack, but the issue was resolved by rebooting the cable modem. The newer laptop was running XP Service Pack 2, and the user was in the process of updating to Service Pack 3 when the problem was fixed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of DHCP and how it operates in network configurations.
  • Familiarity with Windows XP networking commands, specifically "ipconfig".
  • Knowledge of TCP/IP stack and how to reset it using "netsh".
  • Experience with Linksys network hardware and basic troubleshooting techniques.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to configure DHCP settings in Windows XP.
  • Learn about the differences between Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Service Pack 3.
  • Explore advanced troubleshooting techniques for network connectivity issues.
  • Investigate the functionality and configuration of Linksys switches in home networks.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for network administrators, IT support professionals, and users troubleshooting connectivity issues on legacy systems like Windows XP, particularly in environments utilizing Linksys hardware.

NeoDevin
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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.
 
Last edited:
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Never mind. I rebooted the cable modem and it worked.
 

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