connect to two networks from one computer simultaneously

Programmer Question

I have two very separate networks that I'd like to monitor with one computer.

I am working on creating a simple windows form app that monitors the availability of each network by pinging a server downstream of each network.

What I'd like to do is plug a network cable from the router of one network to the Ethernet port on the laptop, and wirelessly connect to the other network. Or is there a better way?

But when a network cable is plugged in, the wireless on the laptop turns off.

Is there a way (preferable Programmatically) to keep the wireless AND the Ethernet card on and active at the same time?

I'm using Vista at the moment, if that matters.

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