[CodyPendent]

The xp machine in question has its internet coming through a wireless network. Its on a separate ethernet network solely for printer access. The problem is windows keeps trying to access the internet through the printer network, which has no internet connection. I've rearranged the network order in the network connections advanced settings to no avail. I actually have to disable the Local Area connection just to access the internet, which means I can't print while online. Is there another way to specify which network windows should access the net through? Alternately, is there a way to just connect the printer (hp color laserjet 4500n) through a patch cable?

[chuckhole]

I am assuming that the PC has two network connections, one for each network?

If this is the case, delete the Gateway address for the network that is used for printing and make sure that the Gateway address that is entered in the network connection used for Internet access is the one for your router that is connected to the Internet.

You should never have two gateway addresses on a computer. If there are times when you need to have multiple routes, then a static route should be used that explicitly defines the routes that are exceptions to your common route.

[Scleros]

I've rearranged the network order in the network connections advanced settings to no avail...Is there another way to specify which network windows should access the net through?

If you've attempted changing gateway metric values in the Internet Protocol Properties Advanced TCP/IP Settings dialog, you may also need to change metric values for the network interface itself as well. The "cost" of using a particular route when more than one exists is determined by the interface and gateway metrics. See Default Gateways. The faster wired interface is likely preferred over the slower wireless interface in your case.

Alternately, is there a way to just connect the printer (hp color laserjet 4500n) through a patch cable?

Yes, you should be able to use a crossover patch cable to connect the printer directly to the computer's wired NIC.