why has my wireless enabled laptop stopped detecting wireless networks ? even though i,m very close to the rou

Answer 1

In addition to Sir Bobby's list, add the router has stopped broadcasting its name (SSID). If the router isn't yours (say, a neighbor's--and you should not be using it), they may have done this (and taken other steps) to keep you out.

Answer 2

turned off .
broken.
router off.
router broken.

do you have another way of wireless detection?
wifi sniffer, another wireless device?
that would help.