WinXP or RoadRunner causing problem?

I have WinXP, preinstalled on a new Dell Dimension Desktop. I have RoadRunner (cable) broadband service. The problem is, most of the time, when I reboot for any reason, or power up for the day, I usually get the "cannot find server" page, and it sometimes takes 3-4 reboots to ever get the connection. I have done everything I know to do (ie, ScanDisk, Norton Utilities, NAV) but to no avail. I don't know how to isolate the problem to either XP (home) or RoadRunner.....does anyone have any ideas? It really gets frustrating at times.

Are you using a Firewall? If so maybe it's setting need to be checked, could be blocking internet traffic? -
Look at the modem and see if there the lights are functioning. -
Check with RoadRunner have them test you connection? -
Is you cable modem getting traffic, any connection. Look at the modem and see if there the lights are functioning.
Check on those basics...others should post as well...good luck https://discussions.virtualdr.com/

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Who is General Failure and why is he reading my hard disk?

Hey, CornerPocket, THANKS for replying! I am SO glad I "discovered" the VirtualDr forums....these boards are the best!!

I do run ZoneAlarm, and have checked all of those settings, and don't think ZA is the problem. And yes, the cable modem's lights (btw, it's a Surfboard 4100) are on, and do show as having "activity", even at those times I can't get online. Everything is checked out as far as the modem is concerned, or at least to the best of my knowledge everything is checked out. I am thinking that the problem lies within WinXP, but have no idea what to look for, as far as settings, etc. Once it ever gets that initial connection, everything is perfect, unless and until I reboot. I usually power down for the night, and sometimes when I power up the next morning, it connects first time, but more often than not, it takes 2-3 and sometimes more reboots.

Any and all suggestions are appreciated from anyone here at VD!!

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In Your Chain of Friendship, Let Me Be a Link.

I just got off the telephone with RoadRunner support, and they helped me to solve the problem.....thought I would post it here in case anyone else ever has this problem.

The problem was with the NIC settings....it was set to "allow the computer to turn off this device to conserve power". Once I unchecked that item, it's been smooth sailing ever since. I have to admit, I would never have thought to check power management settings on the NIC!