Do you have dual boot with Windows on this computer? That's a good way to check if the card is actually working.

BIOS is your computer's setup options. When you first turn on the computer, a screen quickly flashes that tells you which key to press. Usually it's one of the Fn keys, each computer is a little different. Poke around in the options and make sure wireless is enabled.

To recap, the tried and tested method for using Broadcom chipset 14e4:4315 with Ubuntu 11.04 (assuming the card is working and activated):

1. Install Ubuntu
2. Run the Restricted Hardware Drivers app
3. Activate the STA driver
4. Reboot
5. Use the Network Manager icon (top right of screen) to log in to your wireless network

That is the only method I have personally used and verified.

No I had windows vista and my laptop was riddled with viruses, so a friend recommended I switched to linux, I was told "burn it to a disc, install it and go". So I did, even though I haven't a clue when it comes to IT, and I have had nothing but problems with the wireless. It took 4 long painful days to set it up last time but eventually got it sorted with the help of someone on here who was extremely patient. Then I lent my laptop to another 'friend' and it came back to me formatted with no OS on it. So I've put ubuntu back on cos I'd really hate to go back to windows.

Here is what I suggest at this point:

1. Boot your Ubuntu 11.04 CD in "live" mode
2. Run the Restricted Hardware Drivers app and activate the STA driver
3. Open a terminal and type:

4. Use the Network Manager to connect to your wireless network.

If that works, then you know it is possible and you can choose to either troubleshoot your existing install or just do a fresh reinstall.

If that doesn't work then I'm out of ideas, sorry.

I'm too exhausted I'll give it a go tomorrow. Thanks.

Option 1
Since you have a ubuntu distro ,use a wired connection and try downloading the broadcom -STA driver .
Not the latest one but ( ver. 5.100 ....) but the 5.60..... version.

Option 2
Try install Knoppix linux which generally has an excellent hardware support.

cheers