To remove hidden devices such as network adapters that are no longer present, for example after virtualising a server, the following process is used:

- Select Start | Run
- Enter cmd.exe and click OK
- Type the command set devmgr_show_nonpresent_devices=1 in the command window
- Type the command devmgmt.msc in the command window
- Select View | Show Hidden Devices
- Right click the dimmed network adapter, and then select Uninstall from the context menu

This does not appear to work on Vista or Windows 7

The command prompt must be started as an administrator. Use the following procedure:

- Select Start | All Programs | Accessories
- Right click on Command Prompt and select Run as Administrator from the context menu
- Type the command set devmgr_show_nonpresent_devices=1 in the command window
- Type the command devmgmt.msc in the command window
- Select View | Show Hidden Devices
- Right click the dimmed network adapter, and then select Uninstall from the context menu

Error message when you try to set an IP address on a network adapter
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/269155