Recently purchased a Gateway NV79 laptop w/ Windows 7, installed an ethernet switch to connect laptop w/ existing desktop, and switch is connected to Westell modem provided by Verizon when subscribed to DSL a few years ago. The old Windows XP desktop remains connected to internet through the switch with no noticable change.
Worked w/ tech support on phone for nearly an hour trying to connect laptop, but no success. Seemed unable to find network adapter, though it's clearly installed and laptop's device manager says adapter is working. I ordered a new Verizon installation CD (can't find old one), hoping that it might do the trick.
Does anyone have experience setting up a wired home network, particularly one that uses a network switch connected to modem? Or does everyone else use a router? Thanks in advance for any feedback.