I finally found the issue! I decided I'd start from scratch once more, and reinstall my OS... This time I made sure the VERY first thing I installed was QuickTime/Second Life. Much to my suprise, it worked!
Next, I thought I'll install the software/drivers for my Biigfoot Networks Killer 2100 Gaming Network Card. When the install finished, it asked to reboot but I decided I'd try to run Second Life again before I did... FAILED. media_plugin_webkit error. I immediately uninstalled the software/drivers (didn't bother to reboot), ran Second Life again, and it worked like a charm!
Unfortunately, in order to install the drivers for the Killer 2100 NIC, I have to install the software that's bundled with it, and if I uninstall the software, the drivers get uninstalled along with it; so I am unable to determine what specifically is creating the issue (software or drivers?).
Eitherway, I'm sticking with my motherboard's ethernet in the mean time.