Here's what you need to know (and do) to connect your laptop to a wireless network and get Internet access.
First off, let's talk coarse sense. Before you access any wireless network, especially one in a group place, you must have anti-virus software installed and recent on your laptop. Your laptop should also be current with all Windows Operating system Updates.
That said, the next thing you need is to have a laptop with wireless networking capabilities. If you're not sure either yours does, do the following to check it out:
- Click on Start | Connect To | Show all connections, or
- Click on Start | Settings | (Control Panel) | Network Connections
- Under "Lan or High-Speed Internet" you should see a wireless association icon. (If not, see below about installing a wireless network card). Assuming you have wireless capabilities, continue on doing the following:
- Right-click on the wireless association icon.
- In the pop-up menu, select "View available Wireless Networks."
- In the "Wireless Networking Connection" window, click on the accepted wireless network.
- Check the box that says "Allow me to connect to the prime wireless network."
- An icon in the lower right hand angle of your desktop should eventually appear stating that you are connected.
- Open your browser and visit any website you want. If authentication is required on the wireless network, you will be redirected automatically to a login page where you'll have to log in using an stylish Network User Name/Id and the strict password.
That's all it takes.
Note: If your laptop does not already have built-in wireless networking, you will need to buy and install, or have installed, a Wireless Networking Card. There are many brands of wireless networking cards. Just make sure you buy a card that is 802.11b or 802.11g compatible. Linksys cards are an excellent option and I recommend them highly. If you select an additional one brand, be inescapable that the card is WiFi Certified. (For a list of 802.11b and 802.11g certified cards, please visit the WiFi Alliance website.)
How To Configure Wireless Internet entrance For Your Laptop
