u.s.b 2.0 port not working?

I have a compaq evo 1020v laptop with xp, a few days ago the usb stopped working, it cut off and i lost use of the internet, i was using a wireless connection, at present i am now using the earthenet cable, i cannot use or connect anything to my system, i.e printer, camera, phone and wireless mouse, i've been through the help section, still not working, if anyone knows how to fix it and include step by step instructions i would appriciate, thankyou.