Wirless PCI adapter hardware issue?

I purchased a Linksys 2.4 gig Wireless-B PCI adapter
today (802.11b) so I could use the wireless internet in
my apartment building (my computer is a 2001 Compaq
Presario model 5010US). I run the disk, install it, then
I shut off the PC and install the actual hardware into a
vacant slot (as instructed). The PC started and
said "10038 socket operation on non-socket error". I
called the manufacturer (Linksys) and they asked me to
uninstall, and then reinstall the CD program (without
adding the hardware). Again, the same error. They
conferred with others and told me that this was a Windows
error, not an error with their adapter (that it has
happened to other Windows ME users). Can someone post
here or email me with a possible solution? Would be a
pain to not be able to go wireless because of Windows.