Verify Ethernet Network Card Nonfunctional

Just bought and configured a new/used PC with Windows XP Professional SP3. The computer is an aftermarket build by a company called Transource, and it was originally shipped with Windows 7 Pro. The seller of the PC opted to destroy the hard drive before selling it, and all I had was XP SP3 to install on the hard drive I purchased for the PC. I managed to find drivers for everything from the motherboard manufacturer, and the PC is running normally, but the ethernet connection is not working. I am currently using a USB adapter to connect wirelessly, but would prefer to be directly connected if possible.

Is there a way to verify that the network ethernet card is not functioning or is broken?

I installed the network driver from the motherboard manufacturer, but when the connection is enabled, it shows up in the system tray with the red x and says a wire is disconnected or whatever. I have tried enabling the connection, shutting down the PC and, and then unplugging/replugging the router. Restarted but still no ethernet connection...

 

MA, really appreciate the information and links.

When I got the PC, I installed XP and noticed the connection wasn't working, so I hooked up the USB wireless adapter I have. I looked on ebay for a PCI card like the one you linked, but I didn't find anything I'd trust. Looks like I'll be into one of those you linked in the first link if I don't go with one of these, which you also mentioned:

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1525619&CatId=589

Now to make up my mind...