vindaloo,
Win9x is famous for corrupting the networking protocols. I am pretty sure that amanoffewwords' solution will do the trick you. I would like to add, before you delete the protocols, go in and write down the current settings, especially with the TCP/IP settings.
You might need to manually re-enter the Default Gateway, DNS Servers, and IP address and Subnet Mask of the comp.
Take Care,
Richard