win update & network problem

I have a small peer to peer network with all computers running xp. 5 computers. Three are wired in basement office and wireless modem upstairs that connects two laptops to network. Here is the issue. Whenever there is a windows update, I lose the wireless network. I have to go down to the basement and reset the router. Then I repair the connection and its ok. But its very very very annoying. Anyone got a solution for this?

Also, I just added another new xp computer because I was afraid if it was Vista I would have problems with printer drivers, etc. In the past, I have had trouble with different versions of Windows in the same peer-to-peer network concerning printer drivers, programs, etc. Will this be true with Vista? Will I have to change all computers at the same time?

Also, Word 2007 produces a file extension of .docx. Which means you have to download file converter from windows so Word 2003 can read the files. Thought I would mention that.

 

Can you clarify one point: is the router in the basement providing the wireless signal for the upstairs laptops, or do you have a separate wireless router or access point upstairs? It could make a difference to the diagnosis if there are two devices (the basement router plus another router or modem upstairs) sharing the broadband connection.

 

The wireless router is one of the inputs to the wired router in the basement. All of the internet connections are provided by the wired router in the basement.