The network interface for ws1 was failing to work for some reason. I tried the usual Linux forums for advice but most of it was useless.

Finally one of them suggested that there was a warm power up v. cold power up issue with the Realtek 8169 Network card chipset.

So I turned off the machine and then reformatted the disk and did a fresh install. The network is now working (allowing this elog access).

But then...I realized that (someone) gave me a 32-bit install DVD and so I'm now wiping it and starting over.