How to Install a Wireless Modem on a Laptop Computer

A wireless modem provides higher flexibility and mobility, allowing you to access the Internet from a laptop computer anywhere in your home or office. A wireless modem can be installed on a laptop in two phases: connecting the modem and configuring the wireless connection. Your cell phone can also be used as a wireless modem. Here’s how you can install wireless serivce.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• USB cable
• Cell phone
• Computer
• Wireless modem

Connecting a broadband wireless modem

1. Make sure you have all equipment necessary for installing the wireless modem and setting up the broadband wireless internet connection on your laptop. The package should include the Wireless modem (or wireless adapter), installation CD ROM with a manual, Ethernet Cable (or USB cable in case of a wireless USB modem), a wireless antenna (equipped with wireless standards such as 802.11a, 802.11b, or 802.11g) and a power adapter. Call the vendor (or the manufacturer) if any of the above are missing.
2. Read the manual to understand each of the devices in the package. For example, a wireless antenna is used to connect the wireless broadband packets; ethernet cable is used to connect the desktop computer with the modem.
3. Attach your wireless antenna to the modem.
4. Hook up an Ethernet Cable from your laptop to a LAN/Ethernet Port in the modem. Alternatively, If you have a wireless USB modem, which is recommended for laptops, connect the USB cable to the USB port of the laptop.
5. Ensure proper connectivity of the devices before you begin setup of the wireless modem. Connect the power adapter to the power connector of the modem, plug in and switch it on.

Setting up the Wireless Modem

6. Open your Web browser and enter the URL of the modem’s administrative site listed in the user's manual. If you cannot locate it, contact the modem manufacturer’s customer service.
7. Login to the admin section by entering the username and password provided in the user manual. Again, if you cannot locate these, call the modem manufacturer’s customer service. Usually, the default username and password is “admin.” You will now be logged in.
8. Select the Internet connection type. There are four types of internet connections — "Dynamic IP Address," "Static IP Address," "PPPoE/PPPoA" and "Bridge Mode." Call your Internet service provider (ISP) to inquire about what type of setting would be best suited for their wireless service.
9. Choose "Dynamic IP Address" for getting an IP address automatically from the ISP’s server. For every wireless internet connection, you are given an IP address. In some cases the IP address is dynamic (changes each time you connect to the internet), and in others it is static (the IP address is retained even after you disconnect and reconnect to the internet). If the address is dynamic, you will have to choose this setting so that the modem automatically takes the IP from the ISP’s (Internet Service Provider's) server whenever a new wireless connection is established. Enter your modem’s MAC Address (usually found at the back of the modem) and other details. Refer to the user manual or call the modem manufacturer’s customer service to get these details.
10. Select "Static IP Address" if you are provided with a static IP. You need to fill in the VPI, VCI, IP Address, Subnet Mask, ISP Gateway Address, Server Address, Primary DNS Address, Secondary DSN Address and connection type. These details can be obtained from your ISP.
11. Opt for "PPPoE/PPPoA" if your ISP uses this type of connection. DSL users may use this connection. Enter the details of User name, Password and other details. These will be provided by your ISP.
12. Select the "Bridge Mode" if your ISP uses this connection type. Enter the relevant details provided by your ISP.
13. Finish the process by clicking on the "Finish" icon. Your modem should now be set up.
14. Enter any URL Address in Internet Explorer to check if the connection is running.

Using a Cell Phone as a Wireless Modem for Dial Up Connection

15. If your cell phone provider offers wireless serivce, your cell phone (with a built-in wireless modem) can access a dial up internet connection. Ensure that your phone has a built-in modem and that it's activated. Call your cell phone service provider’s customer service for details on how to activate your modem's cell phone.
16. You'll need a specialized USB cable to connect the cell phone with your laptop, available directly from your service provider or at stores like Radioshack. The cable is part of a wireless installation kit that also includes an installation CD. Connect the cell phone with your laptop using the special USB cable. Once connected, your laptop should detect the new hardware device.
17. Depending on your operating system, the laptop may automatically install all drivers necessary for setting up the wireless modem or it may prompt you to install the drivers manually. If prompted, insert the installation CD and follow instructions given on the screen. After all drivers are installed, the operating system will confirm that your new hardware is ready to use.
18. Install the dialer software included in the installation CD. Insert your username, password and dial up number in the dialer. These are provided by the service provider. You are now set to use your cell phone as a wireless modem.

Tips & Warnings

• These steps are generic and the installation process varies from one modem to another. Always refer to your user manual before beginning installation.
• Ask for technical support from the modem manufacture if the process is not clear. They may assist you with a professional installation.

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