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Wireless on Old Laptop Stopped Working

Last response: in Wireless Networking
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I've got an old Dell Insprion 6400 running Windows XP with an Intel Pro/Wireless 3945ABG modem. A few hours ago, the internet just dropped off. It's giving me a Code 10 error. According to Google searches, this is an error code associated with bad drivers or outdated drivers. I have upgraded to the most recent driver, and it still doesn't work. I have also tried to uninstall and reinstall the device through the Device Manager. I've also disabled and re-enabled it several times.

Can anybody give me some help?

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Anonymous
Wireless Authority

It is feasible that the wireless adapter has failed. If so, probably the cheapest route is a USB or PCMCIA wireless adapter.

USB is probably cheaper but I personally think PCMCIA works better.
Anonymous
Wireless Authority

Depends what has failed in it.

You have checked if there's a physical switch for the wireless adapter (or a key combination) and that it's ON ?
Related ressources

I don't think I have a physical switch. I'll check for sure once I get off work.

Anything else I should check to see if it failed?

If it has failed, any recommendations for a USB adaptor? I figure I can get more sue from that by moving it to my desktop later.
Anonymous
Wireless Authority

As it's an older model of computer and all new ones come with wifi I'd keep cost to the minimum -- the main difference between leading brands and the cheaper unknowns is in after sales support.
Anonymous
Wireless Authority

Sorry, link was missing from you post but having a quick look I noticed the Asus (which is a big brand in laptops if not wireless ) and the Rosewill (which I've vaguely heard of) were cheap -- the Rosewill has a big antenna -- good, though it might get in the way.
Anonymous
Wireless Authority

I have no idea -- but having bought both Netgear and secondhand no-name wireless adapters, they seemed to perform identically. So I wouldn't worry too much.
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