I finally got the Dell Laptop running again .. with Dell's website.

This gave me the hint:

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Click Start and then click Control Panel.

Click Switch to Classic View in the upper-left corner when available.

Double-click Administrative Tools.

Double-click Computer Management.

Click the plus button to the left of Services and Applications.

Double-click Wireless Zero Configuration.

Choose Automatic from the drop down menu next to Startup Type:, and the click the Start button.

Click Apply and the OK.================================================== =

Actually 50+ services/programs "Services and Applications" showed "enabled" and I switched them to "automatic", some to "manual". I have no idea how this could have changed. I am happy Mrs. USAFAN's Laptop is running again!