Thanks, I understand what you're saying about Linux, well put. I've actually been using Gentoo for a few years and love it. Even though it's a pain to get set up, it's worth it once it gets going.

Back to my wireless problem, I actually got my problem solved. Get this, you remember I said I was new to notebooks and wireless? Well, the switch on the side of the machine that I thought disabled the sound actually disables the wireless card. I flipped that and now it works beautifully. I have a masters in computer science and I had to call tech support to get that explained to me. :/ Ah well. Thanks again for all your help and words of encouragement!