"Local Area Connection" doesn't have a valid IP

[George Redmon]

Using windows 7. I am having trouble connecting, and staying connected to the internet. This just started happening. Try trouble shooting it. It says "Local Area Connection" doesn't have a valid IP connection? any suggestions how to fix this, or what this means? Thanks for any help offered. George

[Pete Nicholls]

Simplest thing to try is to shut down your Cable or DSL Modem, your Router if you have one, and your PC. After a couple of minutes, turn the Cable or DSL Modem on, then your Router, and finally your computer.
This will reset everything and start with a new slate, so to speak.