Connection problems after reformat

I recently reformatted my laptop for the 3rd time since 2007. My internet connection is modem broadband. Before the reformat, internet was fine and normal. After the reformat, I was confused because the first time I inserted the ethernet cable no window popped up asking me to choose what type of connection it was (Home, Business etc) and name. Every other reformat this happened when I connected to the internet. And I've been using the internet for a few days and it feels very different: slower, some pages never load, heavy pages like Facebook will not load. Yet download speeds remain relatively like normal at 50-200kbs.

The Internet says it connected to a Network with local & internet. A Java update recently failed while I was using the internet because: the installer cannot proceed with my current internet settings. I have done nothing with the internet settings. The dialogue box didn't come up when I first inserted the ethernet after the reformat, I think this is related to it.

I'm asking for solutions to it first before I do another reformat and hope that all will be normal with regards to setting up my home network.

Thanks a lot

er, by the way: Windows Vista Home Premium

 

LOL, is that the way you diagnose an error? You should know to never alter more than one variable at a time.

If it's a laptop just take it to another connection and see how it runs. That comparison will either confirm or deny your suspicions. If it's a desktop ignore this suggestion and wait for the next response..

 

Download the latest driver for your network adapter from this or another machine. In device manager, right click and uninstall your network adapter. Click the box that says uninstall the drivers.

reboot.

Windows will reinstall the card and ask for the drivers. If the drivers you downloaded have an installation file (setup.exe, whatever), quit the NEW HARDWARE WIZARD and run that; if they are only driver files, point the New Hardware wizard to the location of the drivers you downloaded earlier.

 

You need to install the chipset ini first so windows know what your hardware set is. Other wise Windows will use it's def drivers and not the correct mfg drivers.

 

I don't understand. By the way my adapter is Intel Pro 100 VE. Um..I don't get what you all are saying. Can you please give me mroe detailed instructions?

 

Pwhdavey sent me a PM and we appear to have worked this out....just posting to save people time