[SlimDevices: Beginners] Wireless network problems - any pointers?

[Fifer]

Ok, I confess, I'm not a beginner (having had a Squeezebox since the
SB1) but since most of the help requests are posted here, it seemed
appropriate and others might benefit from any answers.

Setup: Win XP Pro PC with wired connection to 2-Wire Wireless
Modem/router. Slim server is Clark Connect mini-ITX box with wired
connection to same wireless router. TP, laptop and Asus Eee connect
wirelessly. 

I've run a rock solid wireless network for years with hardly a problem,
but over the past few weeks it has become very flaky. When the problem
manifests, my transporter and controllers connect, but the TP cannot
get an IP address and the controllers show no player (obviously). Also,
my wireless laptop connects with excellent strength, but displays a
'limited or no connectivity' message and cannot access the internet.

I have discovered that changing the channel on the wireless router
fixes the problems for anything from a few hours to a few days but they
always return, when changing the channel again fixes it again until the
next time.

I've made no siginificant hardware, software of firmware updates that I
can think of (just usual WinXP updates and SC7.0 nightlies). I've
noticed a few new networks have popped up around my house (several BT
home hubs have appeared), but none broadcasting oin the same channel as
me. My channel options appear limited without new hardware (which I'm
willing to get if I need to) as this old, cheap 2-Wire wireless
router/modem only appears to give a choice of channels 5, 6 or 7. None
of my neighbours appear to be changing channel after I do, so the
re-appearing problem doesn't appear to be any 'war of attrition' type
thing.

Any ideas?


-- 
Fifer
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