I get server but not internet, not pulling valid IP

[Hamburg]

Hello,
My Compaq Presario stopped getting the internet, all of a sudden. I called my ISP, they said it was a case of my computer not pulling a valid IP, and the winsock stack can't be reset. They said they couldn't fix it, and I should call Compaq. This computer is 7 years old, no longer with free support, and Compaq will charge me $$$ to talk to to a tech.
Can I fix this cheaply? I am not computer-savvy and will need basic instructions. Or must I trash this computer and have to get another?
Thanks very much!

 

[m4l4k41]

It could be due to configuration settings:

Try

Start -> Run

Type in "cmd.exe"

In the command line screen, type in

ipconfig /release

ENTER

ipconfig /renew

ENTER

This will release the current IP address and attempt to obtain a new address. This might automatically re-establish the connection.

If this doesn't seem to be doing it, try:

1) Going into Control Panel
2) Internet Options
3) Go to 'Lan Settings'
4) Remove automatic configuration checkmarks

If the above two possibilities aren't working, try using this program: http://www.softpedia.com/get/Tweak/Network-Tweak/WinSockFix.shtml.