I had a big problem with malware on my friend's Compaq notebook (he's let me borrow it for an extensive amount of time). I followed the instructions to remove spyware from the computer, including Smitfraud and WinFixer. As far as I know, all of the malware is gone.
After rebooting back into normal XP mode from safe mode, I went into Add/Remove programs, and checked for anything I might've missed. While there, I deleted a few AOL applications and toolbars that have been on the computer since I borrowed it from my friend. Previously, when back in Safe Mode, my internet worked fine. But after deleting those AOL programs, it no longer worked.
At first, I thought I might've deleted a driver. So I downloaded and installed the updated drivers for my network card. No dice. Still doesn't work. I spent about an hour in a chat with a Compaq tech, again to no avail. I've checked IP addresses, Network settings, and my next step would be to configure my router (if I knew how to do this...). I really have no idea why the wireless refuses to work on the notebook, but still works on the desktop I'm using as I'm writing this.
So, if anyone has ANY ideas on what to do about this problem, by all means, post here and help me out!