Ok, here’s where I’ve been…sorry for the delay too
Ran Windows Network Diagnostics. RESULTS: problem with wireless adapter or access point
I reset adapter and router
Ran WND again: RESULTS: none of the networks you have previously connected to are in range
Nosed around in Device Manager: working properly, no conflicts.
Advanced Tab: Adhoc support 802.11n - disabled
multimedia/gaming environ - disabled
roaming sensitivity - medium
Selected “update driver” RESULTS: Driver is up to date (Ralink RT5390 802.11 b/g/n)
Uninstalled Firefox to later reinstall … just to rule it out 
Rebooted laptop … connected via IE. Attempted to reinstall Firefox. After 2 mins of no activity closed it. Stayed connected but no further browsing done to test longevity.
No issues with wired connection. Browsed and tested downloads for approx. 5 mins.
Relocated back to living room. Connected just fine, strength was the norm (good). Updated Java with no incident. Browsed 2 mins, no incident.
Here’s the kicker. I fired up my laptop, not the friends that we have been working on. Got a Windows System Error: IP address conflict w/another computer on the network. grrrrrr
I rebooted, same message.
Did not mess with Friend’s laptop til this morning. RESULTS: Desktop off. Laptop connected. Tried to download Firefox…auto download did not start, clicked link…still nothing. Browsed to Avast.com; RESULT: you’re not connected to a network.
Definitely a network issue going. Agree? Scratching my head here since all was working just fine prior to working on the friends Laptop, but wait … my memory kicked in…
SUMMARY: In the past the Desktop had to be on in order for other devices to connect. Quite certain anyway.
The power supply went out on that PC and was off for several months until I got around to repairing it, YET all devices (Google Box, Wii, Smartphones, Laptop and 2 Netbooks) were able to connect without incident.
I replaced the power supply but still kept it powered off since all seemed fine with it off.
Did not encounter the current issues until we started working on the friends Laptop.
I was planning to disable the secured connection and broadcast the SSID to test results but opted to forgo it. Resolving network issues is a thorn in my side. Can you all help?