There is a WiFi disable switch on the side of the laptop. See if it has been enabled by mistake.
Next, click the Network Neighbourhood icon on the desktop, click on the 'View Network Connections' tab on the left, and double-click on the wireless connection icon.
See if it is enabled/ all ip addresses/proxies and protocols are correct. The problem is usually in this area.
Yep, that was it. I figured there was some kind of "hard switch" but couldn't find it for the longest time. But there it is, right on the front.
What's the rationale for having both the hard switch AND the soft (Fn-F8) switch, other than confusing people? Thanks for your help.