How can I get my laptop to work with a wired connection?

October 4, 2009 11:16 AM

Follow up to this question. We tried the D-link, but it doesn't seem to be working with the laptop. The desktop computer connects fine. The laptop also doesn't recognize the desktop for file sharing.

We've tried all sorts of things with network connections, to no avail. I'm not sure what the problem could be/what we need to do. It works fine if the cable is running straight from the router to the computer, but when we connect the switch the laptop won't recognize the connection. They're both connected using ethernet cables.

posted by biochemist to computers & internet (3 comments total)

Have you tried straight from router to laptop? If that doesn't work you have to get DHCP going on the laptop.

Assuming laptop to router works.. On the switch, does the port light turn on when you plug in the laptop? Does the light come on on the laptop? Try using the known good wire that you've been using on the desktop to see if that helps.

If laptop to router works, but laptop to switch to router doesn't, and you know the wires and switch are all good (by testing yourself with the desktop), you've discovered a truly obscure problem.

Err.. Is all this gear modern, or are you using something that is pre 2002? Always best to post model numbers of the offending gear..
posted by Chuckles at 2:51 PM on October 4

Could you extend the network into the basement using something like this? I'm sure there are cheaper models if you shop around. I used something similar to extend my phone line to the cable box for years and it cost about $50.
posted by IanMorr at 7:28 AM on October 5

I wanted to update on this. Apparently it was a driver issue - the driver was so old that the local connection didn't even show up. An update fixed it. Thanks for the suggestions everyone!
posted by biochemist at 2:29 PM on October 18