Windows 2000 Plain Vanilla Networking settings?

I've a P4 PC I wanted wirelessly networked using a brand new TrendNET TEW-444UB USB2 802.11B/G adapter. I installed all the drivers exactly per the maufacturer's instructions for Windows 2000/XP, and the thing would not even "associate" (whatever that means).

I have Win 2K SP4 installed, and it worked previously with a D-Link DWL-122 (802.11B) USB adapter. I had "uninstalled" this one prior to installing the new one, just to avoid confusing windows.

I grabbed the latest drivers from TrendNET and attempted several Re-installs to no avail. SOmetimes the card blinks, and Device Mgr says "did not start!" but when it is behaving best (after a fresh boot, and the device is then inserted), sometimes the built-in config utility "sees" the device there, but it never recognizes any network present.

When I install it in my WinXP laptop, no problems. It connects to my home wireless network. So, apparently it's not a total dud, and my home network is okay too (the PC and the laptop were the same distance from the AP to get the same signal strength).

I have muddled with all the windows network settings, I fear that I may have rotally screwed thing up!

First, does anyone have siliar experiences with this hardware (the TEW-444UB) and Windows 2000?

Second, does anyone know how I can return my Windows to it's original condition (including which "extra" files I might delete that could be polluting the environment). I would hate to have to totally re-install windows just to fix this. I'd rather spend $20 bucks on a different adapter, or just upgrade the OS to WIN XP Pro. Help!!!!