How to reconnect to Ethernet interface on Linux computer?

How to reconnect to SBC Yahoo DSL via ethernet cable after reformatting Windows XP Home Edition on a Dell PC?

• Just a few days ago, a friend and I completely reformatted my computer. But, since it was reformatted, we seem to be having trouble with the computer recognizing the ethernet device port (or whatever it needs to be called). On the SBC Yahoo DSL disc setup, it acts as if we need to install the ethernet adapter card that was provided with the software. However, before the reformatting, the DSL setup went differently, where only plugging in the yellow ethernet cable was required. Additionally, I'm certain that my computer does have these ethernet capabilities, and worked with no problem before. I suppose my main concern is why the computer isn't recognizing this device. I've contacted the AT&T support staff, who seemed to narrow down my problem to being either a faulty ethernet cord or some sort of error with the network adapter. We've tested the entire DSL package on another computer (disc, modem, ethernet and all), and it seems to work just fine. Any ideas about how to fix this?

• Answer:

  Ok, what you need to do is open up your computer and find out what ethernet card you have and what driver you need to install... If you don't have a card, and it is built in, you need to find the drivers to your motherboard. It's not AT&T, it's your drivers for your ethernet adapter... It's not a problem with your DSL or DSL modem. Another thing you can do is run all of the Windows Updates, this might actually fix it, windows update installs alot of common drivers, like ethernet adapters..(but, you probably can't do that without being able to connect) Better yet, just call Dell, tell them which model you have, and ask them what ethernet adapter came stock with that model. Download the drivers on a different computer, put them on a cd, and install them. I'm pretty much positive this is what your problem is.