You have to be kidding me, it took you two hours to plug a cat5 cable into the back of a computer? DHCP would have assigned an ip address to the pc within 5-10 seconds and you'd be on the internet, there are many reasons to hate on Vista(like over aggressive prefecthing for one), no need to make up some nonsense.
if everything works (i.e. DHCP), then there isn't a problem. but if something does not work, there is a problem. then the OS should make it possible to solve the problem. this is were vista (home basic) fails.
if vista would have worked, it would have been awesome (maybe). but as it didn't it was (and is) horrible and stupid - as it prevents easy solutions.
If DHCP doesn't work then either there is a problem with your router/DSL/cable modem or you have a virus.
None of those things are the fault of the OS, since you didn't describe the issue or the resolution I can only assume you are a troll or have no business providing tech support.
>I can only assume you are a troll or have no business providing tech support.
you are right, i "have no business providing tech support", that's what i tell my (technical not advanced) friends and elderly family members every time!!!!!
