Reinstalled Windows XP: Couple of Issues

[saladsamurai]

Hi Folks :) My first post here; I will try to be thorough. But I am not a wizard at this stuff, so
I may butcher some terms here.

My issues concern a Dell Dimension 2400 (about 5 years old). I have another computer, so I
can download drivers and what not.

What I have Done

Boot from reinstall disc-->Deleted All Partitions-->reinstalled Win XP (I believe this auto creates
new partition "c:")

My Issues (2):

1.) The monitor that is connected is not the original. the resolution is all messed up and it won't let me change it in the control panel.

Under the Monitor Tab, the name is "Default". I think that Win XP is assuming that the original VGA monitor is still there and is thus inly giving me the 600x480 option.

I am using an Acer AL1716W and I down loaded the drivers form Acer's website. But they are in the file format ".ICM"
I have no idea what to do with those now? Nor do I know if that would solve the problem


2.) Since I don't have a wireless card, use a USB adapter (Netgear RangeMax). I downloaded and installed the driver for that, but now I do not know where to go next. That, is, how do I get online from here?

I know my network name and passkey. I just do not know what do do with it.



Any insight is greatly appreciated,

Thanks,
Casey

[saladsamurai]

Okay. I installed video driver from Dell site and the monitor issue has been resolved.

I have also installed Service Pack 2 and I am working on 3 now.

I just need some help getting internet up and running.

[Fruss Tray Ted]

I don't think you needed to install SP-2 and SP-3. I think just SP-3 would have been fine and covered everything the previous one did also.

But as a note, many people are still using just SP-2 with the worry that SP-3 can cause problems.

Those packs will install your USB drivers so all you'll need to do for internet is then in stall the drivers for the USB device itself. Probably go to their website to find the drivers.

Also, make sure to install your AV, firewall and other malware apps prior to taking it for a test drive on the net. Then go directly to Windows Update before random searching.