I notice you said that you have to re-install Windows, have you install service pack 2? Alot of the wireless tools for XP were quite basic with their early versions. If so you may need to check that the Zero Configuration Utility service has been started. This is under the Control panel and then go to "Administrative Tools" and then "Services" and then check that "Wireless Zero Configuration" service has been started.
I hope this is of some help
Cheers
Dale