No other security programs installed. Just got the machine fresh about 3 weeks ago so not much on there... I've rebooted multiple times with no luck. Remember the machine DOES see the card, it shows the hardware swtich is turned on, and shows up in the Device Manager as fully working. So I don't think the problem is related to hardware at this point

Dunno... but it seems to be an issue with joining the Homegroup or something. When my laptop tries to connect, it tries to connect through Public Network rather than joining the Homegroup. Sometimes it does connect there, but it won't stay... it keeps resetting. Also seems somehow related to my hardwire Ethernet connection. If I connect a wired Ethernet connection, the wireless connection seems to stay on more of the time. Strange. But when I unplug the Ethernet, the wireless starts losing it's way back to the "Identifying..."

Not sure if this is related, but my stupid trackpad which I have ticked to stay off when a USB mouse is plugged in keeps resetting on it's own.

It appears Windows 7 decided to release some updates last night. This morning, back to square one.... even turning off the firewall does no good.

Public network? Assuming you're only using one wireless network, like most people, I'd suggest you go into Network and Sharing Center -> Manage wireless networks, and remove all listed networks. Start over, adding your home network with a private profile and setting all the security and configuration options previously discussed.

I've done everything you suggested, but as my last recourse, I decided to completely unplug my router and leave it offline for about 10 minutes. Since I turned it back on, and also tried messing with the Verizon In-home Assistant program.... it appears to be back online. Something I have noticed as well... seems like the network gets confused if you try to connect wirelessly while already connected via Ethernet cable. Never was a problem with the Atheros card, but perhaps the intel 6300 doesn't like it so much.