Wireless Home Networking - Index of

Figure 7-2:
The
Wireless
Network
Connection
dialog box.
Easy installation
Chapter 7: Setting Up a Wireless Windows Network
As an alternative to the manufacturer’s installation and configuration software,
follow these steps to install and configure a supported wireless network
adapter. (Note: We recommend that you check the documentation that
accompanies your wireless adapter to determine whether it’s supported by
Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration before continuing with these steps.)
1. If you plan to use a wireless network interface adapter that you have
to install inside the case of the computer, turn off the computer and
install the PCI or ISA adapter.
2. Log on to Windows XP as a user with administrator rights.
If you installed Windows XP, you probably have administrator rights. To
check, choose Start➪Settings➪Control Panel➪User Accounts to display
the User Accounts screen that shows the accounts on your computer. If
you’re not listed as Computer Administrator, you need to find out who
the administrator is and get that person to change your account.
3. Insert the PC Card or attach the USB adapter.
Windows XP displays a message that your new hardware is installed and
ready to use. Because your computer is within range of your network’s
wireless AP (they have to be close enough to talk to each other),
Windows XP announces that at least one wireless network is available
and suggests that you click the Network icon to see a list of available
networks.
4. Click the Network icon in the notification area of the taskbar in the
lower-right corner of the screen.
Windows XP displays the Wireless Network Connection dialog box, as
shown in Figure 7-2.
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