I just got a new Sony Vaio, had no problems until i connected to the internet. It disconnects after awhile and I have to restart the computer or AOL will say that I cannot reconnect due to conflicts. When I restart, the computer came back on without the modem or COM port listed in the device manager! I reseated the modem and that brought it back, but still no COM port. I tried using the recovery disks to bring it back to no avail. Is there any way I can bring my COM port back since. Because everytime I disconnect I have to reboot to log back on AOL. I have XP hoem edition and AOL 9.0

Try putting the modem in a different slot instead of reseating it. If that does not work call Sony. You have a hardware conflict somewhere. Good Luck Windows: Just another pane in the glass

The com ports is built into the motherboard and if it doesn't show at all in the "device manager" then there is a hardware issue with your motherboard. If it was just a bad driver it would show the com ports as unknown hardware or as "com ports" but disabled. A new system.. if you haven't blown the warrabty by opening it up then you should call sony tech support and let them work you through it. Or take it back to where you bought it from to the techs there. IN THE MATTERS OF STYLE, swim with the current; in matters of principle, STAND LIKE A ROCK