No Internet Access

UncleZen

Not quite sure how a friends computer (WinXPSP3) got into this state, but basically whatever he's done or downloaded has nadgered all internet access from that computer. He did admit to downloading something then cancelling the install half way through and since then no internet access via the browser of his AOL email app. Skype seems to be constantly trying to authenticate.

Initially I thought that whatever he downloaded has planted some sort of malicious app on the machine thats nadgered the internet access, but now Im thinking maybe his networking has broken somehow (my reasoning is that malicious apps usually require internet access to do their malicious activities).

Last night I left him with Windows Defender Offline 32bit to do an offline virus scan to see if that reveals a rootkit or virus.

At the next opportunity I will verify that its not his router thats thrown a wobbly. He has a a BT wireless router, though no wireless devices and a homeplug to homeplug "LAN" link to the nadgered desktop computer

Any other thoughts from anyone?

Figment

Assuming you've checked the cabling, rule out the homeplugs by connecting the PC directly to the router.

russell_e

It could be the homeplugs have lost their pairing. Is the network adapter getting an IP address?

UncleZen

Networking is the next thing Im going to check.

robmar0se

Hi, Have you thought about restoring the system to a date prior to the corrupted download?

Easy way to check status is to go to the command prompt and type IPCONFIG

If it gives you the IP address of the router eg 192.168.1.254 then the link to the PC is okay and it is something actually within the PC that is at fault. Secondly try booting into "safe mode with networking" and see if it connects.

Another thing to check is the device manager and make sure there is no error reported on the network adapters. If in error try updating the network adapter drivers from the manufacturer's website.

If still a problem there is more, but lets start with the above. Interested to see that using BT, but trying to load AOL software sounds rather odd.