Weird Problem: Windows 98 and Gateway 2wire Homeportal

Older computer (600mhz), completely wiped and only Windows 98se plus updates loaded. Computer given to student who lives with us.
I set it up, loading and connecting to our home LAN with Homeportal setup wizard. Connected and working properly with network and web access.

Problem: when rebooted, the computer "forgets" it's pc2wire driver (removing it from the network in device manager) and treats the USB connection as new hardware, loading unknown drivers from Windows and in the device manager, a new, nonworking USB is shown under the USB. Deleting this non-working USB device and turning the computer off (not rebooting) and then turning it back on with (and sometimes without) the Homeportal Setup cd-rom in the tray results in the pc2wire being restored to its proper place under network in the device manager.

Before I go through rewiping the hard drive and reloading Windows 98se again (with all those *&^%&^&** updates and reboots), any suggestions as to how to find and fix this really weird problem with the computer "forgetting" the pc2wire networking? I have loaded McAfee and scanned it.

Thanks.