Wireless network doesn't connect automatically, then periodically disconnects

Running XP Wireless Zero Config
Linksys 802.11G Wireless Router
Dell Desktop with Dell USB Wireless adapter
WAP enabled
My network is the only "preferred" network
Automatically connect to non-preferred networks checkbox is clear
No other changes to default settings.
Excellent wireless connection (3 feet from access point, plaster
wall)

The network does not automatically connect on startup, the wireless
network icon has a red X on it. I click on it, bring up the wireless
properties dialog and click connect and it connects every time. Some,
apparently random time later, after the computer has been sitting
idle, the network disconnects.

Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.

Dean

Try using WEP encryption with a (pre) shared key. By typing in the key it should connect automatically. it did with mine.