corrupt tcpip protocol stack

If it is corruption to winsock, you can try this to resolve the problem:

http://www.cexx.org/lspfix.htm

If the problem runs deeper, take a look at this guide for uninstalling and reinstalling the TCP/IP stack:

http://www.infomagic.net/windows_98_faq.htm

It's long, but quite good. Delete any spaces in the URLs.

Good luck...hope this helps!

write down your network card name so you can find and reinstall the drivers. get properties of tcpip (in Network properties) and write down all the numbers (if any, probably just set to 'obtain address automatically) write down DNS server names...
then, delete nic and tcpip protocols and reinstall. if truly corrupt stack, that will fix it. what are your problem symptoms? can't get on the internet?