windows xp automatically detects the installation of new hardware. however, windows xp does not automatically detect removal of driver software. you must first uninstall the nic driver before removing the nic.

    if advanced server features are installed, they must be uninstalled before removing the driver software. see "uninstalling advanced server features" on page 20 for details.

    to remove the nic driver and associated software, use the following procedure:

    1 start windows xp system and log in. you must have network administrator privileges to uninstall the driver software.

    2 select start, then control panel.

    3 the control panel window appears. double-click administrative tools.

    4 double-click computer management.

    5 the computer management window appears. in the left-hand pane of the window, click on the "+" sign next to system tools, and then click on device manager.

    6 click network adapters, then right-click on the 3com nic.

    7 select uninstall.

    8 when the confirm device removal window appears, click ok.

    the driver and associated software are removed from your system.

    you must uninstall the driver before removing the nic and moving it to a different slot.