I had a hell of a time trying to install Linksys WRT54GS router and associated wireless adapters in XP.
Linksys instructions clearly marked on all devices " RUN CD FIRST " . DONT!
XP has all it needs except the driver.
Install the device, turn on comp and let windows detect. When windows prompts for a driver, click have disk and now insert the appropriate Linksys cd . The only thing pulled off that cd will be the driver. That's it. That's all you want. Piece of cake.