[Will73]

I'm wondering if anyone can identify this problem that has happened both yesterday and today when i have switched my computer on, after getting in from work:

I switch both the modem (NTL:100 connected via ethernet) and computer on at the plug and then immediately boot up the computer. Windows loads but i have no internet connection at all e.g. via internet explorer and MSN doesn't log in, despite the modem looking ready to go. I clicked the troubleshoot button on MSN and it said something about no I.P. address found.

I can remedy this by shutting everything down, turning everything off at the plug, then just powering the modem back on at the socket and letting it go through its cycle for 30 secs or so until it is ready, THEN turning the computer on. Hey presto - I now have an internet connection!

It's almost as if in order to get a connection i have to treat it as if i have hooked up to the modem by ethernet for the first time - i.e. powering the modem on and letting it get settled before booting up the PC.

so, do you reckon the modem is on its way out, the ethernet card is breaking (its only about 6 months old...) or NTL are just playing about with the network in my area (Cambridge CB4)..?

Cheers,
Will