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How To Set Up a Wireless Network With Windows Vista
Word Count: 485
If you are just starting out with a new computer, or have just installed Windows Vista on your current device, then one of the first things you probably want to do is set up your wireless network. If you don’t know much about Windows Vista, or are running into some frustrations setting up your network, here is a step-by-step guide to help you set up your wireless network using Windows Vista.
Step 1. The first thing you need to do is ensure that your laptop or PC is installed with a wireless device, or has one installed internally. If you have just purchased a new machine, chances are it already has one installed internally, as most new computers come with them preinstalled. If you don’t have one, then you will need to use a wireless router to connect to your network. Before you begin anything, ensure that all router drivers are installed on your computer first.
Step 2. Configure the access point on your wireless device or configure your router with its correct settings. If you are using a router, you will need to follow the manual instructions to configure this. You can type 192.168.1.1 into your web browser to reach a setup page for your router. The username and password that you will be prompted with can be obtained from your router manual.
Step 3. After you have entered the startup page, you want to click on the “Wireless” Tab, and you will then set up the SSID for the network. This is the name of your network, for our purpose we will call it “Janes Network”. You also want to set up a password for your network, something easy to remember, but difficult to hack.
Step 4. You will also be prompted to select a security type, and will be given the options “WPA” and “WEP”. You want to select WPA because it is the more secure of the two.
Step 5. You will see an icon in the notification area located in your task bar for “wireless network”. You will then get a “Connect to a Network” window. Select “Janes Network”, and click “Connect”.
Step 6. Once you have connected and accessed the network, you will be asked for either a passphrase, or a security key. Use the code you used when setting up your router. Click “Save This Network” to ensure that each time you power up your computer, the network will automatically connect. Your computer will verify your passphrase every time and may ask whether you want to connect to the public, work, or home network. Select the network most suitable for you, keeping in mind that if you are in public (such as a hotel or restaurant), you want to choose public to prevent others from accessing your files.
Congratulations! You’ve just set up your wireless network!
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