The Avalon controller must be connected to your internet router through Ethernet cable.
If your local network is not using 192.168.1.x, for example many networks are set to 192.168.0.x then it won't be found. You'll have to change your network setup to use 192.168.1.x for a while to configure it. You can change it back later.
So your 741 controller will connect to the router with Ethernet cable, and your laptop will connect to your router through Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi. The router will allow them to talk to each other, and talk to the internet. The 741 should not normally be connected directly to a PC.
If you only have one Ethernet connection in the wall (dorm??) Then you will need a router or Ethernet switch first.
The issue here with configuring the router/switch is that we're using this for my company (free electricity). The rig is to be used at my office that employs 20 people. ALL of their computers go through this switch. Hence me not wanting to change any settings on a router level. Is there any way just to change the computer settings only? I'm also confused because your post references 192.168.1.x as the correct setting but others have told me 192.168.0.x - which is correct and what do I enter as 'x'? Just any 1-3 digit number I wish?
Thanks!