Network Cable unplugged

[Camper]

Just out of the blue I lost network connection on my
laptop and get the message that the "network cable is
unplugged".
Here's the troubleshooting steps I've taken:
Tested several different cables that do work, I've updated
drivers, ran virus scan, uninstalled network card and
reinstalled, tried through different networks (home &
school), can ping 127.0.0.1 that worked.

When I plug in the cable the lights do not come on. The
laptop does not acknowledge that I have a network cable
plugged in.

I am running WinXP on Dell Inspiron 5100 laptop, NIC:
Broadcom 440x 10/100 Integrated controller.

Any suggestions? I haven't contacted vendor yet, was
hoping to resolve myself.
Thank you!

 

[Steve Winograd [MVP]]

Just out of the blue I lost network connection on my
laptop and get the message that the "network cable is
unplugged".
Here's the troubleshooting steps I've taken:
Tested several different cables that do work, I've updated
drivers, ran virus scan, uninstalled network card and
reinstalled, tried through different networks (home &
school), can ping 127.0.0.1 that worked.

When I plug in the cable the lights do not come on. The
laptop does not acknowledge that I have a network cable
plugged in.

I am running WinXP on Dell Inspiron 5100 laptop, NIC:
Broadcom 440x 10/100 Integrated controller.

Any suggestions? I haven't contacted vendor yet, was
hoping to resolve myself.
Thank you!

I think that you've covered all the bases, Camper. From your
description, I'd say that the network card is defective, and I'd
contact the vendor.

Pinging 127.0.0.1 doesn't tell you anything about the network card.
That "loopback" address is internal to the TCP/IP protocol stack and
isn't associated with a network card. You can even ping 127.0.0.1 on
a computer that doesn't have a network card.
--
Best Wishes,
Steve Winograd, MS-MVP (Windows Networking)

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