I'm having the same problem connecting to the internet as many people (but i'm not on wireless). However, i have a few other related questions about switching back to XP. My computer is brand new and Vista was already installed on it. If i use an old XP disk will i lose Vista, which i have just paid for, for good or can it be saved somewhere? If i install XP will my personal files (music, etc) be lost? (i'm guessing so). Also, is there a miracle cure for this "Local access only" and "Unidentified network" problem that i've missed? lol Thanks. -Billy

Hi Billy, Please understand that Windows Vista is a new operating system, it contains many new features and technologies, such as an updated graphical user interface, improved searching features, new multimedia creation tools such as Windows DVD Maker, audio, print, and display sub-systems. It is always recommended to use newer version of software to enjoy new features and stabilities. Some customers may encounter difficulties because of the new features or different designed of the new version of operating system. However, Microsoft provides different support service offering to help our customer to better enjoy the new versions of our products, including CSS, forum, and so on. Regarding the questions about installing Windows XP after Windows Vista already installed on a computer, I found the following articles for you: Install Windows XP on Your Pre-Installed Windows Vista Computer http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/install-windows-xp-on-your-pre-installed-windows-vista-computer/ How to dual boot Vista and XP (with Vista installed first) -- the step-by-step guide with screenshots http://apcmag.com/how_to_dual_boot_vista_and_xp_with_vista_installed_first__the_stepbystep_guide.htm?page=1 Technically, the data files wont be lost if you take the steps from above articles. However, in order to avoid unexpected issue, I suggest you backup your files to a external disk first. Thank you for your understanding. Regarding the "Local access only" and "Unidentified network" problem, there are many factors can cause the problems, could you please let me know your detail description? Thanks. Hope it helps. Important Note: This response contains a reference to a third party World Wide Web site. Microsoft is providing this information as a convenience to you. Microsoft does not control these sites and has not tested any software or information found on these sites; therefore, Microsoft cannot make any representations regarding the quality, safety, or suitability of any software or information found there. There are inherent dangers in the use of any software found on the Internet, and Microsoft cautions you to make sure that you completely understand the risk before retrieving any software from the Internet.

Robert,This problem seems very VERY common with vista. I just got a Vista machine. It connected to the internet just fine. I also have an XP machine, it also connects just fine. Then yesterday Vista decided not to connect and set my networks up as Local Access only. I believe it is probably some over zealous security issue ... Vista is REALLY annoying about that. (If I have to give another program permission to run, I may throw my computer out the window.)I have tried different network connections (ethernet LAN and wireless)I have tried different networks (from home and from a friend's house)I have restored my operating system to a point before this issue began.My xp machine CONNECTS JUST FINE from these places.But vista DOES NOT.I intend to remove vista asap, but tragically that has been made difficult as well. Given the number of people who have had this problem and the lack of any coordinated response I believe that vista is just a lousy operating system. So what is Microsoft's answer to this problem?