Not Connected to a network, but browse fine

I'm trying to solve a network problem with my mom's Vista laptop. i've searched the forums a bit, but it's having the opposite problem that most people seem to have. Network and Sharing shows no works available. since Vista can't find a network Windows Update fails. all internet browsers work fine. 3rd party programs that access the internet are fine as well and can download their updates. i've disabled the wired device and the wireless and re-enabled. i've tried changing the IP to a fixed address.
i'm stumped. to make things more complicated she lives in a different state. i've worked on it on our last visit, but now i'm tying to fix it remotely. and trying to trouble shoot the network while remoted in is like trying to fix your car while driving. any help would be greatly appreciated. i've attached a screen shot of the Network and Sharing Center.:confused
thanks

 

What happens when you click 'connect to a network' link under the Not connected section, do you see any networks?

Are you getting any Windows Update error messages?
If you can access the internet you should be able to download updates but there may be other issues going on.

If you set your ip address manually make sure it's on the same subnet as your router.

How are you accessing the system remotely?