Cannot connect to internet PLEASE HELP

[mschmidbauer001]

I reformatted my friend's computer and when it was all done, the damn thing won't connect to the internet (cable). i have the drivers for the modem installed and all that - it just won't connect. when i do an ipconfig in DOS it has no DNS suffix, the ip address is 169.xxx.xxx.xx - i don't think that is right - and it has no gateway. what can i do? i'm not calling dell - i did that and they said some bullshit about having to pay 240 bucks. forget that. so if anyone can help - it'd be much appreciated. thanks

 

[NetCompTech]

Is the modem online?
If so, is there a link light on the modem for the connection between your PC and the modem, and a link light on the back of you PC where the network cable plugs into your NIC?
If yes:
In the Device Manager, does your NIC card show as enabled/working (no exclamation point or red X)?
In your Network Connections window, how many local area connections do you show? Do you show any Network Bridges?

 

[mschmidbauer001]

the modem is online.

the computer has the link lights at the NIC and the modem shows that there is PC activity.

the NIC card is there - there is no red x and no exclamation point. it says it is working properly.

there is one local area connection and no bridges.


PLEASE HELP ME.

 

[NetCompTech]

is the computer running XP?

Are you using the same network cable (same as before reformat)?

Go into DOS and ping 127.0.0.1; do you get 4 replies?

 

[blue68f100]

Does your service require auth (PPPoE)?

Is your firewall blocking the connections?

Are you using a router in your setup?