Windows Vista Problem with internet status icon in toolbar

Hi,

The internet status icon on the taskbar is missing. I'm only been using Vista for a couple days now so maybe someone with more experience with it can help me. I right click on the start menu and select properties. I then click the notifications tab and under system icons i see clock, volume, network, and power. Volume, clock, and power all are selected with the option to deselect. However, network is gray and wont let me check it. Can someone please help me with this, I'd really appreciate it!
Thanks,

Anthony

Also, I am using a Sony Vaio SR series notebook if that helps.

 

http://www.winhelponline.com/blog/notification-area-icons-missing-in-vista/