One of the more common issues with connecting your Vista based PC to the internet is a lack of connectivity accompanied by the cryptic "Unknown Network, Local Access Only" message popping up in the message area/system tray. This is part of a 'feature' in Vista to improve security while browsing from public wifi connections, such as coffee shops. It has, like so many other new features, caused a few headaches when trying to connect home internet connections. But there's an easy fix.
Open your control panel from the start menu and find the Network and Sharing Center.