If you are getting the 169.x.x.x ip then assign a static ip address to the wireless netowrk card, you could also create a DHCP reservation on the router for this laptop using the same static ip address that you asigned above. But I doubt this will help as it appears that you wireless adapter might be the problem. Make sure you have the latest drivers for the card installed, look in the event viewer for any errors that might be related to the network card, that would be the first place to start, in the interim just get yourself a pcmcia network card, maybe a decent brand until you can sort this out. Also check for bios updates from the manufacturers site for the laptop. I am sure this can be resolved but to be honest would be easier to fit a new card on there, you could also change the interneal wiresless card depending on the laptop. Give me the full model number of the laptop and I will try help you find a replacement.