Wireless Connection Stuck On "Identifying"

I have an internet connection issue on my desktop that has had me pulling my hair out the last 6+ hours - it may (or may not) be connected to the removal of a zeroaccess rootkit recently. Unfortunately, I removed it, then i've been away at my girlfriends since - so I can't remember exactly what I used to remove it - I believe it was the Kaspersky tool. Anyway, ever since startup this morning, i've not been able to connect to the net. I haven't even been able to connect to another computer (this laptop) via a crossover cable. The connection to the net (wireless) is stuck on "identifying". I've googled it and tried some steps i've found on the net, and here within the forums, to no avail. The key issue appears to be linked to AFD.sys, it is in the system32 folder, but not showing in the device manager (hidden devices shown) nor in services.msc! I've tried registry repairs, from those i've downloaded, even to the reg settings for AFD from this laptop - both running 7 Ultimate 64. I'm at the end of my limited ability/knowledge.