Ethernet Problem

Lets check the obvious things first.  (Please don't be insulted.)

1) Have you verified that the ethernet port is enabled?:
In "System Preferences"->Network->"Show: Network Port Configurations",
make sure "Built-in Ethernet" is checked.

2) Does the OS find the ethernet port?:
Launch /Applications/Utilities/Terminal.app and run 'ifconfig'
command, then post the results here.

Or even before that, what G3 is it? Is it beige or blue and white? I don't think either's Ethernet port has lights on it so are you referring to an additional network card which is installed in a PCI slot?

If so, take the card out and try it in another computer to make sure it works. Then try it in another computer running Panther - if it still doesn't work you know Panther (and therefore a driver) is to blame. If it doesn't work at all it's a dud card, right?

Fortunately they're inexpensive so, either way, it looks like you'll need to buy a new one that does work with Panther.

Good luck.

It's On a Beige G3. And I can't even get an IP from DHCP. Not even the lighst on the router\switch come on. It stays off like it wasn't even connected.

Have you ever seen the network port work on this system?

A couple of things you could try for giggles:  see if a cross-over cable gives you any signal at all on the switch.  Also, have you tried different ports on the switch?

Sorry for the late response. Just got back from PR. Anyways, I just did another fresh install of Jaguar (Counldn't find my panther Cd) cause the HD was making wierd noises. I'm sure that all the ports on the router\switch work. I switch the cable to different ports anyway and still no indication of a signal. I think the port the Mac went dead. The Mac is aware that ethernet  is available, but I can't even get an IP address with the DHCP. Once i get home I'm going to try the cross-over cable methed suggested my Schandor. Then I'm going to make another patch cable just to be certain that the port is dead. Does anyone know of any USB Ethernet ports that are compatible with MAC?

Do you mean an Ethernet adaptor that connects to the computer via USB (sorry for the questions - I just want to make sure I know exactly what you mean before giving you ill advice).

You'd be much better off with a PCI solution but it could be that cards with OS9 drivers are hard to find (not entirely sure as I haven't checked). Obviously if all your spare PCI slots are used up that's not an option but I'd recommend against any USB solution.

I looked into a Mac USB-to-Ethernet solution a while ago and came up empty.  I'm fairly certain that D-link makes a PCI NIC with Mac drivers.  One question though, what is the beige G3 model that you have?  I didn't think USB was available until the Blue-and-Whites came out.

I thought that too but guessed he might have a PCI card supporting it.

I guess Ill get the PCI Ethernet if nothing else works.

    Also try zapping the PRAM "http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=2238" and if that doesn't work try resetting the CUDA.  There is a picture of what the switch to do this looks like at "http://eshop.macsales.com/images/Items/cudabutton.jpg".  It should be located somewhere on the Logic Board of your computer.
     If all else fails you can pick up a cheap D-Link DFE-530TX+ and download the driver from "http://www.realtek.com.tw/downloads/downloads1-3.aspx?series=16&Software=True".  I am using one of those in by Beige G3.