I found an universal NIC driver that I could use in place of my ethernet controller which I happen to have on this XP installation all this time. So I guess I can delete those two file packs that contained universal drivers for XP as it was a waste of time. I don't think I am completely out of the woodwork though, my computer is stuttering every now and then and the quickfix before was changing out a faulty 5V lead to the video card. It seems since this symptom continues to grow I am speculating that my power supply - mind you, its only 2 years old and it cost a pretty penny which shows you that the higher the cost doesn't mean longevity - is starting to go.

I guess this is sign to finally upgrade this PC. I have been involved with PCs way too long and the upgrading and tweaking is getting old. The PC is like a custom car from it seems like which means money pit IMHO.