Wireless problem Question

[Jeffington]

I'm using XP with Service Pack 2, and I've been having trouble with the Wireless connection in my house. I bought a cheapy USB Wireless connector and it works, but is prone to shut down. Not only that, when my computer stops being able to connect to the wireless router, all the commuters stop. The computer tells me it's:

Acquiring Network Address

...and when it can't, it tells me:

The problem is occurring because the Network did not assign a network address to the computer

...at which point all computers can't log on, and the same message appears on their screen. The computer helpfully tries to fix it but finally gives up telling me:

Cannot renew your IP address

I'm getting fed up with it, and I feel the guy who I'm living with who first got internet connection for the house is getting fed up with me. This never happened before my computer got on the network...what is my computer doing? Is there a chance my USB connector is the problem?

Thanks in advance for any and all help.

[Jeffington]

Idon't know if this helps, but I forgot to say that the only way to get the connection working again is to reset the router.

[DaveC2003]

You should have a wireless icon at the bottom right of the screen near the clock. Right-click it to bring up a menu and select "Repair".

This will turn off the wireless connector and bring it back on. Much quicker than switching the router on and off.

DaveC2003