missing network controller driver

It sounds like you're having trouble installing the network controller driver on your computer. Here are some steps you can try to resolve this issue:

1. Update the driver: Go to the manufacturer's website and download the latest driver for the network controller. Then, right-click on the network controller in Device Manager, select "Update Driver Software," and follow the on-screen instructions.

2. Uninstall the driver: Right-click on the network controller in Device Manager, select "Uninstall," and then restart the computer. Windows should automatically reinstall the driver after restarting.

3. Check for Windows updates: Go to Windows Update and check for any available updates for your computer. Installing the latest updates can sometimes resolve driver issues.

4. Try a different network: If possible, try connecting to a different network to see if the issue is specific to a particular network.

5. Disable and re-enable the network controller: Right-click on the network controller in Device Manager, select "Disable," then right-click on it again and select "Enable."

If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be a hardware issue and you may need to take your computer to a repair shop for further assistance.

Regarding upgrading to Windows 8.1, it is important to ensure that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 8.1 before installing it. If your computer does not support UEFI, you will not be able to install Windows 8.1. You can check the system requirements for Windows 8.1 on the Microsoft website.

I have checked and my computer does meet the requirements for windows 8.1 I have downloaded the latest drivers for the network controller but when I try to install it it says my device is not plugged in or connected or something like that and there r no updates for my computer cause they no longer make updates for windows 7

Please list your exact Dell product model number: Example: Dell Inspiron 3048

How to Find the Product Model of your Dell Computer | Dell US

In meantime, you installed latest network driver (windows 8.1) from your Dell Product Support page?

Product Support | Dell US

Dell inspiron 1545 and I'm running windows 7 

Dell doesn't list or support any windows 8.1 network drivers for your computer. However, Dell does list network drivers for windows 7, 64 and 32 bit. Please click on link below, look to the right, and then select your dell model number.  

Drivers & Downloads | Dell US

In your Dell Product Support page, download / install network drivers onto your computer.

Or.....

You can use the System Restore tool on the computer to go to an earlier time when the network driver was working correctly. 

Use System Restore - Microsoft Support

So I have recently gotten it to recognize my network controller it's dell true mobile 1300 minicard so I'm there but now I it says it can't download the software for it I feel like I'm so close

By the way, I do see the Marvell 88E80XX 10/100 Ethernet Controller in your image. This network driver is listed in your Dell Product Support page. 

You should consider upgrading the computer's wifi minicard.

Dell Inspiron 1545 Wifi Cards | Dell Inspiron 1545 Laptop Parts (parts-people.com)

Please check out the information in the link below, hopefully it will be a help to you.

Dell Inspiron 1545 laptop Wifi upgrade - Dell Community

Good luck with your search to get your computer network to work nomally.