Hi, I am a new mac owner (used them plenty before but know nothing extensive about hardware, software installation, and networking)... I have a Mac running OSX and a PC running WinXP side by side and want them to share internet access. THe PC has internet access, the Mac does not. I have extensive knowledge of networking PCs, but cannot get the Mac connected to the Net. We are connected to a D-Link router (private IP, 192.168...) through a 48 port patch panel switch, and then to the cable modem. When the PC is connected to the port, the light is solid (connected to the net). When the mac is connected to the same port, the light flashes and there is no connection. The modem and router lights are fine (PC does connect). The built in audio in the Mac does not work (for a fact). Is it possible that the built in ethernet doesn't work either? If so, how do I get the Mac to see a newly installed network card and sound card? THank you for any advice.

Looks like you're running into the same problem that many new Mac users encounter. You're realizing that you bought, or were given, a piece of crap. The first new Macintosh that I ever bought, an LC 575, would not accept memory simms greater than 8 megabytes. It's possible that your built-in network interface is not functioning, but if your built-in sound is not working, you probably have bigger problems: You're trying to use a piece of crap. However, just to be sure that your Mac isn't being prematurely diagnosed as a piece of crap, are there any security features implemented on your switch that you're not aware of? You mention that you're attempting to connect your Mac to the same port that your PC was connected to. Is your switch a managed switch? Does your switch lock ports to specific MAC (hardware ethernet) addresses as a security feature? I know that some switches will not allow a connection on a port that reports a changed MAC address. It's just a security feature that prevents Dick E. from unplugging a legitimate network device and plugging in an illegitimate network device. Although, I'm betting that you're just attempting to use a piece of crap. :P Gay men don't jump.