Earlier today, we attempted to update the Broadcom BCM5716C network drivers on a Windows Server 2003. (Dell PowerEdge T310, FWIW). Since then we have not been able to boot the server in any normal mode. Safe Mode works.

Safe Mode with Networking and regular bootups hang at "Applying Network Settings." I haven't tried Last Known Good Configuration nor have I tried Directory Services Restore Mode. I should also mention that the longest I've allowed "Applying Network Settings" was perhaps 30 minutes.

I spoke to Dell since the server is under a basic warranty. They sent me the original Broadcom drivers. The trouble seems to be, however, that since I can only boot in Safe Mode, I can't install the application package as given. In safe mode, I receive the error: "The system administrator has set policies to prohibit this installation."

I can install the drivers independently, but that doesn't allow the NICs to work. The most I've been able to get are Code 10 errors on each NIC.

I plan to get back to the site tomorrow to attempt installation of a different NIC.

I'm wondering what else I can try.