The problem was that whenever I wanted to install updates or download drivers (on mac osx) that the computer constantly told me that I was not connected to the internet, when the network diagnostic clearly stated that i was. I could have a wireless confirmation and a no internet error window up side by side like contradictory companions. Problem was solved promptly and simply by going to System Prefs>Network>Advanced>Proxies and turning off "Auto Discover Proxies" or something.
Ended up buying a new Time Capsule router. No problems so far. Also fixed wifi sync w/iTunes, and problems with MBP not being able to connect to shared wifi attached drive after sleeping.