I had some problems getting started with Ubuntu (this week), especially my
laptop wifi. Looks like my problem was actually in the router. However, while I
was researching the problem I ran across a thread on the HP site forum where
many users were having problems with their atheros AR5009 wifi. Try to Google
"ar5009 +wlan" and you'll see


Trouble with Atheros AR5009 WLAN adapter - Wireless, Internet and ...Dec 27,
2008 ... Welcome to the HP Support community! Here you'll find great
solutions,advice and how-to's, friends and discussions on printer,
notebook, ...
h30434.www3.hp.com/psg/board/message?board.id=Internet&thread.id=314 -

FYI - Several users made HP replace the wlan. Check it out. Mine is working (for
now).