FM2A88X-ITX+ Ethernet LAN connection problem
 

I have an FM2A88X-ITX+ motherboard. I am having connection issues with the onboard LAN. I have installed "AtherosLan(v:2.1.0.21).zip" for Windows 7 64 bit. The problem is that it takes about 20 minutes (sometimes longer) to make a connection to the network (for internet access). I first thought it might be the router but have since tried 3 different routers and the problem still persists. Funny thing is, I can transfer files on the network but can’t get access to the internet (during the time the status icon on the system tray says there’s no connection). FYI, this computer is connected to the router with about a 50 foot run of Cat 5 (not 5e or 6) cable. Interesting to note that under Network and Sharing Center, it shows as an “Unidentified Public network” until it connects to the Windows 7 network (for internet access). What can I do to fix this problem?

Does it get an ip address from Your router

No it doesn't. You check this by going to ipconfig using the command prompt, right?

Ipconfig /all

You need to get the connection identified as a Home or trusted network or Windows will not give you access. A step was missed when the network was setup and it is unknown. An unknown network will only give you local access.

bluetooth, it gets an IP address after it says it is already connected for internet access, but not before. Tweakurr, once it connects for internet access access it will say it's connected to the home network. But that is after waiting for 20 minutes or more. How can I get it to connect quicker?

Did you try the original drivers provided in the CDROM?

bluetooth, I installed v:2.1.0.19 from the CD (the CD also contained v:2.1.0.21 which I didn’t try). It didn’t help any and might even be slower connecting. Is there something else I could try? FYI, I still have v:2.1.0.19 installed in case that makes a difference.

Did you try a shorter CAT 5 cable.?

FWIW, I could try that as a test but it won't work as a permanent solution. I also have another computer that is connected with a run about the same length as this computer and it connects instantly.