[updater]

Thanks to all who answered.
Virgin set the AOL up for my nephew and I thought it sounded like a lash up. They have their own reasons for not using VM broadband, one being that he has been an AOL Gold service user for ages and, strangely enough, likes it.

I installed an ASDL wireless router at he previous address so he could get three laptops connected on AOL simultaneously. He likes the setup (is used to it) and wanted to continue.

As to why VM did what they did - I have no idea. I couldn't find any info on the modem or setup which is why I posted.

However it does seem that putting a standard wireless router inbetween the desktop and modem will do the trick.

Thanks guys

Rik