Absolutely no Internet Access

At this point you first need to make sure you have the network connection setup properly. Check to make sure that the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) settings are set to Obtain an IP Address automatically and that Obtain DNS server address is also set to automatic. If you don't understand this, then you should start in the Networking Forum or just refer to this: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/305553

Installing System Mechanic would not be my first, second, third or fourth choice but that's up to you.

 

• Does the network connection show that it is active or does it show that it is disabled?
• If you look in Device Manager, does it show any problems for the Network Adapter?
• You said no internet access but what does this really mean. Is it
  • that Internet Explorer does not work. Have you tried another browser like FireFox. If no browser works, have you tried using IP Addresses instead of URL's.
  • Do email programs work? (not email using a browser. Rather something like a real mail program like Outlook.)
  • Do you have other PCs on the network? Is there a router being used? Can ping another PC or router on the network?
• Try running this XP TCP/IP Repair

If still having problems, please follow the instructions in the below link and attach the requested logs when you finish these instructions.

• READ & RUN ME FIRST. Malware Removal Guide

• If something does not run, write down the info to explain to us later but keep on going.

• Do not assume that because one step does not work that they all will not.

Notes:

1. If you run into problems trying to run theREAD & RUN ME or any of the scans in normal boot mode. You can running steps in safe boot mode but make sure you tell us what you did later when you post logs. See the below if you do not know how to boot in safe mode:
   
   • Starting your computer in Safe mode
2. If you have problems downloading on the problem PC, download the tools on another PC and burn to a CD. Then copy them to the problem PC. You will have to skip getting updates if (and only if) your internet connection does not work. Yes you could use a flash drive too but flash drives are writeable and infections can spread to them.

 

What about this part of my question

Obviously if there is only one PC, you cannot ping another PC, but try pinging the PC itself and the a router or cable modem....etc if one is used. I assume this is not dial-up?


Try running XP TCP/IP Repair before doing anything else.

 

Your modem is most likely a router too. Power down the modem for a minute and then turn it back on. Click Start, Run, and enter ipconfig /all > c:\net.txt and click OK. Attach the C:\net.txt file here. There is a space after the ipconfig and before and after the >.

But what were they pinging? They probably just tested access up to the WAN side of the modem. What I'm asking you to do is test the LAN side which is the side your PC is connected to.

 

You're welcome.

It may not be an infecting. It could just be a setup issue.