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WiFi problems only on one computer

Tags:
  • Computers
  • Windows Vista
  • Wireless Network
5 minutes ago

Please help. This is driving me nuts.

For years my family was using an outdated modem router that was only capable of Wireless-G.
Knowing we would eventually upgrade to Wireless-N, I purchased a few USB WiFi adapters from Linksys. (AE1200 and AE2500)

I had been using the AE 1200 for about 2 months with no problem, and then it was time to update our modem router. We updated to the PK5001Z through Century Link. So for the first time, my computer would be using Wireless-N.

This is where the problem started. The connection now drops every 10-15 minutes on my computer. It doesn't completely go off, it just flashes "limited connectivity" and the only way to get it back is to remove the adapter and plug it back in. Usually it works brilliant for another 10 minutes, then drops again. Sometimes I have to keep it unplugged a few minutes before plugging it back in. Keep in mind that I am running Windows Vista Home Premium Service Pack 2... this may have something to do with it.

I have uninstalled and reinstalled the AE1200 a dozen times to no avail. So I thought maybe it's the adapter itself. So I tried installing and reinstalling the AE2500 a dozen more times. Same problem. I also tried installing the two adapters on another desktop and they never drop connection. That computer however is running Windows 7.

I know for a fact it's not the modem router itself either. Because I have two laptops, a tv, a tablet, and another desktop that all use WiFi and none of those are affected.

I have tried changing the channel on the PK5001Z to 1, 6, 11 - still happens. I have tried adjusting the adapter settings to not allow the computer to put it to sleep - still happens. I have removed any and all objects that could possibly be obstructing the signal, still happens. I am closer to the modem router than any other device in the house, so I know it's not an issue of distance. I updated the firmware, still happens. And short of a clean reinstall of windows, I did try a repair install. Still face the same issue.

Again, this happened the same day I installed the new modem router. Is there some sort of compatibility issue with Wireless-N and Vista? Is there some setting I'm unaware of? Some driver I'm missing? My computer is very old, but still worked for what I needed it to do. Unfortunately, I no longer have the Wireless-G USB adapter to test it out and see if that's the problem.

What gives?

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