Member Avatar for ShadyTyrant

I just reinstalled windows XP, and then installed ubuntu next to it. XP can't find my modem at all (version DSL). I created a new connection with my user name and pass. When it trys to connect to the WAN (PPPOE) it just gives me a connection error.

When I boot into Ubuntu however my internet works just fine with out any extra hassle.

Can anyone help please?

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by donkey_pasta

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Brief summary referencing the thread: Windows XP on a Dell Dimension E510 fails to bring up the DSL link while Ubuntu on the same box connects fine. That combination usually means either (A) Windows lacks the correct network driver for the integrated NIC, or (B) the Windows connection type is wrong (PPPoE vs. DHCP) for how the modem is currently configured. pointed toward the PPPoE vs LAN distinction, and located a Dell support driver for the E510 — both lines of inquiry are the right ones to follow next.

Diagnostic and driver workflow:

  • Verify that Windows actually detects the NIC: open Device Manager (Start → Run → devmgmt.msc) and inspect "Network adapters" and "Other devices" for yellow exclamation marks. If an unknown device appears, view Properties → Details → Hardware Ids (strings like PCI\VEN_XXXX&DEV_YYYY) and use those IDs to match a driver.
  • If the device is listed but nonfunctional, install the vendor driver matching the Dell Dimension E510 and the exact Windows XP edition (32‑bit vs 64‑bit). If the driver was downloaded elsewhere, transfer it on removable media and install locally.

Quick network checks and stack reset (run in an elevated Command Prompt):

ipconfig /all
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns
netsh int ip reset resetlog.txt
ping 8.8.8.8

These confirm whether XP obtains an IP and can reach the gateway or the Internet.

PPPoe vs DHCP note and final tips:

  • If the modem is acting as a router (clients receive 192.168.x.x addresses), the Windows TCP/IP adapter should be set to obtain an IP automatically (DHCP). If the modem is in bridge mode, Windows must dial PPPoE with the ISP username/password — match whatever Ubuntu is using.
  • Also check BIOS/board settings to ensure the integrated NIC is enabled, temporarily disable any third‑party firewall/security while testing, and confirm the driver installed is the exact match for the OS. The driver referenced earlier in the thread is a likely candidate, but confirm with the hardware IDs before installing.

Recommended Answers

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Member Avatar for gizgiz

If you already have a DSL modem, you shouldn't need to use PPPOE to connect to the internet. Can you connect using LAN?

Member Avatar for donkey_pasta

As gizgiz said, connect using LAN. Generally Ubuntu works out of the box on most network cards (from what I've experienced) but XP does not always (depending on how old the installation disc is). You may need to install the drivers for your network card. If you can't find them then post the brand and model of your computer and we will help you find the right drivers. Obviously you'll need to download them on a different computer and transfer them with a flash drive or external hard drive.

Member Avatar for ShadyTyrant

I am running a Dell Dimension E510, with an Intel Pentium 4 cpu, and integrated network card.

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