How to Set Up a Wi-Fi

Wireless networks are becoming faster, especially with the new Draft-N protocol, making them highly desirable to replace Ethernet, or cabled, networks. Setting up one of these networks is fairly simple, provided your have the right equipment and follow the correct procedures.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wireless router or modem
• Wireless bridge
• Wireless network adapter
• A broadband Internet connection

1. Unplug your cable or DSL modem to turn it off, and connect it to the WAN, WLAN or Internet port on the back of your wireless router using an Ethernet cable. If your modem has a built-in wireless router, you can eliminate this step.

2. Plug in your cable or DSL modem, and wait for it to connect to the Internet.

3. Temporarily connect your wireless router to the Ethernet port on the back of your computer using an open port on the back of the router. These are usually labeled with numbers.

4. Turn on your computer and use your web browser to access the configuration screen for your router. This is usually an IP address that's listed in the router installation instructions. You may also need a sign-on and password, which will also be in the manual.

5. Choose a unique SSID name, and enter it into the applicable area of the configuration screen. You will use this SSID to give other computers access to your network.

6. Enter a WEP or WPA security code to prevent outsiders from accessing your network. Usually the router will configure this for you, giving you several network keys to choose from. You may also need to create a passphrase to generate the security keys.

7. Disconnect the Ethernet cable from your computer and reboot. At this point, if you're running Windows XP Service Pack 2 or above, the computer should be able to recognize your wireless network. Otherwise, you may need to download the service pack from the Microsoft website.

8. Right click on the wireless network icon in the lower right-hand side of your screen and select "View Available Networks." A list of networks within range of your router should appear on your screen.

9. Select the name you gave your network from the list and click on "connect." You should now be asked for your security key. Enter it twice, and click on "connect" again.

10. Connect the wireless adapters, or receivers, to any computers you want to give access to your network. Many new Centrino notebook computers have built-in wireless adapters. Repeat Steps 8 and 9.