OK, friend's laptop refuses to obtain an IP address. DHCP client service is starting, but not started. Looks like I need to do a repair install. BUT, no CD. Here's my question, if I grab one off the net and use it for a repair install using their key, will it work? If not, I'll format and install XP Pro. Unless somebody has an answer to the no DHCP client problem. And no it doesn't work using a static IP either. The router is fine because my laptop connects as does his desktop. Maybe I need to post this in the networking section as well.