I have 2 PCs (win2k server & XP SP2) connected to a linksys router which in turn is connected to an ISP speedstream 5360 DSL router. Recently, I am experiencing connectivity problems (no access to the internet – cannot ping an outside address from either PC). Is there a diagnostic tool that can pinpoint where the failure might be? Thanks

Are these problems intermittent? If the service seems to "fade" in and out then I suspect something could be failing. Check all the ethernet cables and replace if needed. Be sure the router is in a vented area and is not overheating. Narrow it down to one device, if both PCs fail at the same time then it is most likely the router. As for a diagnostic tool, I'm not aware of any.

Can you ping and connect on your LAN between PC's? If so it may be just a configuration problem in the router. If you can't, this may be indicative the router is in need of replacing. If both PC's are not accessing the internet then you need to log into the management interface and start looking at your settings. Compare the DHCP setup to the clients TCP/IP information.......is it the same? Does your DHCP scope point to your ISP's DNS server for the DNS address? If not, it should or you will get no resolution and therefore, no internet. If that all looks good, check your firewall settings. You could try resetting the router. Just unplug it for a minute or two and then plug it back in and let it reload and see if that doesn't fix things. If you have connectivity on the LAN but no internet and everything looks good in the router setup, your dsl/cable modem may be the problem.

Why two routers? Do you have DHCP enabled in both one them? One is enough. Stuart