When trying to reinstall the driver for my network adapter, I get the following error message:
“Cannot install this hardware. There was a problem installing this hardware. <Adapter Name>.  An error occurred in the installation of this device. The name is already in use as either a service name or a service display name.”  What can I do?

This problem occurs when registry entries that should have been removed are left in the Windows registry after uninstalling a network adapter on your computer.

Microsoft has provided steps that can be used to remove the registry entries that remain in the registry.  Once these entries are removed, the installation of the new or replacement network adapter can proceed normally.

WARNING: The steps provided by the Microsoft Knowledge Base article require the use of the Windows Registry Editor.  Using this program incorrectly can cause serious and permanent problems with your Windows installation.  It is recommended that the current Windows registry be backed up and that an experienced user performs the steps described. 

Linksys is not responsible for any data loss or corruption that may result from damaging changes made to the Windows registry.

Click here to visit Microsoft Knowledge Base Article KB823771, titled, “You Cannot Install Driver Files for Your Network Adapter and You Receive a "Cannot Install This Hardware" Error Message”.