Win XP needs to have the Notebook System Software installed first along with the chipset drivers and before all other drivers. Get it at your download page under System Utilities. The other drivers do not install correctly without it.
I have a Dell Inspiron 1501 - it came with vista, but I put xp home on it...two years ago. It worked fine and connected to the internet perfectly. With a cable modem. A few days ago I had to redo my computer..i put xp back on iit..along with all the drivers...and it wont connect to the internet properly..it says it has a connection..yet..wont work right. I've checked the router and turned it off and back on.. and the modem too..and I've reset the IP address.The other computers and x-box that are connected to it are working just fine.
Dell Inspiron 1501 Ethernet Problems