hi burrwalnut thanks for reply--it seems to happen mostly after xp updates and updates of various software progs. also it can happen if i do not shut down properly or impatience sets in when i am in a hurry for going somewhere like now as in have to go somewhere now. i did start to uninstall & reinstall netgear. now i have tried just install software without unplugging router,just the router software,this time fingers crossed (P.S i dont like that phrase)upto just it has behaved and all is well(shhh).will see how it goes but thanks for your interest burrwalnut.regards whizzer.