Getting back online with my Linux laptop was so simple. All I had to do was
connect the Linux laptop by an ethernet cable to the cable modem, unplug the
modem, replug the modem and let it search for probably an IP address and I'm up
on the internet with my Linux laptop. I dedicate this laptop to primarily
surfing and email. This frees up my Windows XP laptop to run photography
applications without dragging it down. I can now connect up all 3 laptops, one
at a time. As soon as I get a new router, I should be able to get my system back
where it was in a few days.