I have read through the other posts, that have the similar problem. I have unistalled and reinstalled my network adapters, which include a USB connected Motorolla Cable modem (specifically a Surfboard 4100). Also the onboard ethernet connection, also a 1394 Net Adapter (not sure exactly what that is). Now my device manager show them installed without conflicts. The Network Connections screen shows only the onboard adapter connection. I am using a cross-over cat 5 cable to connect to my other PC which has XP home as the OS (both PC have XP home installed). The crossover cable connects my onboard ethernet port to the other PC's ethernet adapter. Also I have checked the services and yes both of the applicable service are started.
Now, the glaring problem I can see here, is that the Motorolla modem is not showing up on my Network Connection screen. What I am going to do now, is completely remove the modem drivers, and reinstall them from scratch, will post once I am done. Thanks for your interest.