Whether onboard or not, it's still a Network Interface Controller (NIC).
Don't care about COM port (RS-232 port), it's not needed.
Explain how you "enabled" NIC.
Download the NIC drivers from www.support.dell
I realised that after I responded, a nic is a nic. lol
It was already enabled I had nothing to do.
It did tell me it was functioning properly I disabled it and enabled it again anyway.
No, I did not try to bypass the router and direct connect to many (4) laptops here using the wireless.
It crossed my mind but the old tower did work using the same exact equiptment and when I unplug the 45
the amber light goes out so I know it sees the connection just not speaking the same lingo.