Network icon and status problems in XP

Hi, hope someone can shed some light on this.

Problem outline:
No network icon in systray, whilst other icons present.
In ‘network connections’ folder icon shows as LAN connection; repair and properties actionable in context menu, but status dialogue will not show. Can retrieve IP address details through cmd.
Repairing connection halts at clearing DNS cache.
Nic is functioning ok.

System:
XP pro sp2

My Status: %{ (perplexed and saddened)

Your help is appreciated,
Thank you