Funny thing happened on the way......
 

A funny thing is happening when I installed Mandriva (2005). I am able to surf the internet, but I am never able to update the software or kernel. In a previous version, I always lost my connection and wasn't able to update or surf the internet even though my nic card was operating perfectly in both instances. What gives? Can anyone help on what might be the problem?

Well... Mandriva is full of (bad) surprises, so don't expect an answer different from: you have misconfigured your upgrade source.

Well Linux tr.gz. broke the ice so I will ask. Are you useing urpmi when trying to upgrade? If not do a little google on urpmi. It works for me.

I do remember using it before, but my memory is s**t so I can't say whether I dreamed it all up or what. I'll try what you suggested and I'll get back to you.

http://easyurpmi.zarb.org and select an update source from there. Remove your existing update source first.

Hmmmm, in LE2005 I am able to update everything except a kernel source package I didn't run as soon as it was available because of it's size. It continues to be available but will never sucessfully update.
You may want to post the actual steps you take and errors you receive for any useful attempts at troubleshooting.