Windows XP patched messed up my drivers
 

Hi all,

I don't know a hell of a lot about operating systems, drivers, etc., but I do know this:

I went to Microsoft to download various "critical" updates to Windows XP. When I restarted, my computer (a laptop) was unable to recognize my home network. I tried it in some public networks and, though it recognized them, it didn't connect. I was on the phone with Dell for about 2 hours trying to fix the damn thing, and finally got it working at one point, only to have it disappear 5 minutes after I hung up the phone

I believe this means the updates somehow messed with my drivers.

I ultimately did a system restore to before I did the updates, and all is well again.

My question is this: I want to have the various security patches for Windows XP, but how do I fix my drivers after that?

I think some more information is needed in this situation. What kind of netwrok are you connecting to? (wireless/Ethernet)
It sounds like you are having problems with the wireless setup but that is not clear.

I've heard a little about some of these. First thing Ive heard is do not d/l xp Service pack 2. not yet at least. There are a few driver issues.

Second thing, dont d/l and install any updates for a few days. This will give time for microsoft and others to determine if there are any known issues. Then they will re-release an update. Most of the time the stuff is ok tho

The Microsoft site at www.windowsupdate.com is a little pushy. There is a really good chance that you also installed something that you did not intend to install. With certain selections, other selections are made, likely 'for your convenience.' You really have to check out every screen and read all of the options.

I'm not sure it's a driver issue. There is a drivers section there, but I rarely find anything out there. The other two sections are Windows XP Recommended, and Critical Updates. The Recommended section has a few networking items:
- Advanced Networking Package
- WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access)

but these are not chosen by default. The networking package is just some small stuff anyway, but I suppose could stir up some dust.


To answer your Q: just be really careful with your windowsupdate selections. As for drivers, you'll need to figure out just what drivers are nto working correctly. Hit Start, right click My Computer, select Properties. Click Hardware, and Device Manager. Anything with a crapped-up driver will have a yellow ! icon next to it. That's a good place to start. Click the item and check it's own properties. XP allows you to "Roll Back" drivers, so if you believe this is the problem, go ahead and rool it back. Just remember to perform changes one at a time. Otherwise you'll likely create more havok!

Good luck!