NIC physical MAC address is all Fs (FF:FF:FF:FF:FF:FF)

I have a problem with my PC that upon reboot the NIC physical MAC address is
all Fs (FF:FF:FF:FF:FF:FF, and then of course I cannot logon to my DSL
conenction.

If I delete the NIC from Device Manger and reboot, the driver reloads and
the MAC address is correct and I can conenct to my DSL conenction, but the
problem reoccurs.

I ugraded from Windows 98 to Windows XP Pro SP2, a "dirty" install without
erasing the data on the harddrive, and that is when the problem began.

STEPS I HAVE TRIED:
I have tried a different NIC(same brand and model)
I have changed PNP OS Installed in CMOS from Yes to No.
I have set Wake Upon LAN in CMOS to disabled.
I checked for updated NIC driver, none.
I have tried a different PCI slot.
I have upgraded the firmware on the Tyan system board.
I have run a fil virus scan, none.
I have ran a full spyware/adware scan and removed minor adware/spyware.

Pentium III 800mhz 512 mb
Tyan system board
Linksys LNE100TX V4
Windows XP Pro SP2
Symantec AV CE V10
MS AntiSpyware Beta
Verizon DSL (No Router)

I would appreciate any help in the matter, I am pulling my hair out!!
.

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