How to Use a Wireless Adapter
There are several different types of wireless adapters that can be used to wirelessly connect to the Internet. A PCI wireless adapter is rarely used in laptops, but commonly used in desktop computers. This device requires an open PCI slot in the motherboard to be installed. A PCMCIA card is often used for laptops. A person can use this card by simply sliding it into an available PCMCIA slot on the side of the computer. The USB adapter is the easiest to use and is used for desktop computers as well as laptops.
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Instructions
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1
Find a USB port in a Windows-based computer. Many of the computers made now have several USB ports. Look at the front of the computer tower as well as behind it to locate the USB ports. Likewise, some computer screens have USB ports built into the side or back of the screen.
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2
Place the CD that comes with the adapter into the computer. Follow the directions given as the installation program opens up. Some adapters do not come with CDs. If a CD is not included, continue to Step 3. Companies like Linksys, D-Link and Proxim all manufacture wireless adapters that come with installation CDs.
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3
Place the USB wireless adapter into one of the USB slots. Make sure that the USB adapter matches up with the port evenly before installing it. Push the adapter in as far as it will go, but do not force it.
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4
Wait while Windows finds the adapter and installs it. Windows notifies the user when the installation is complete with a notification that appears at the bottom of the screen.
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5
Double-click on the small computer icon in the task bar at the bottom of the page. A list of available wireless connections will appear. Choose the connection that has the most bars next to it and click "Connect."
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6
Click on the icon for the Web browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox) to begin using the wireless adapter to connect to the Internet.
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Tips & Warnings
Eject the wireless adapter from the "My Computer" menu before removing it from the computer. To disable the wireless adapter, right click on "My Network Places" and choose "Properties." When the window opens, right click on the wireless icon and select "Disable."
A wireless adapter does not ensure Internet coverage wherever a person is. It only helps secure a connection in places where wi-fi networks already exist. A 3G card is needed for continuous Internet access where wi-fi networks cannot be found.
