How to Set Up a PCI Linksys Wireless Access Point with a Wireless Router

In order for your wireless home network to function, you must install a wireless access point on each computer you intend to connect to the network. PCI Linksys wireless access points are a good choice for each desktop computer you wish to connect. Check the documentation of your router and your PCI Linksys wireless access point to ensure that the wireless standards are compatible before attempting installation and setup. Once you have your equipment for your home or small office network, you'll be ready to set it up.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Insert the Linksys CD into the CD drive of the computer on which you will install the PCI Linksys wireless access point. If the installation software doesn't start automatically, click Start > Run and navigate to the "Setup.exe" program on the CD. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software for the Linksys wireless access point.

2. Turn off your computer and transfer it to a stable work surface over an uncarpeted floor. Open up the case and touch an unpainted part of the interior computer chassis to ground yourself. This will prevent any static electricity from damaging your computer or your PCI Linksys wireless access point. Find an available PCI slot inside your computer. Remove the screw and the plate from the PCI slot. Remove the PCI Linksys wireless adapter from its anti-static sleeve and hold it carefully by the edges. Insert the Linksys wireless adapter in the PCI slot and push down firmly but gently. Replace the screw where the tab comes in contact with the computer.

3. Close the computer case. Attach the antenna to the PCI Linksys wireless access point at the back of the computer. Connect the blue antenna lead, if present, to the blue antenna port in the center of the card. Attach the black antenna leads to the black ports on either side of the blue port.

4. Turn the computer back on. The software for the Linksys wireless access point should start automatically. Choose your wireless home network from the list of available wireless access points. Click "Connect." Select the type of wireless security that is enabled on your wireless router. Select the type of encryption, passphrase and WEP key or WPA shared key. Click "Connect" again.

5. Click "Advanced Setup" if your wireless network's name doesn't appear in the list. Select "Obtain network settings automatically (DHCP)." Click "Next." Select "Infrastructure mode," and click "Next" again. Set up your wireless security settings as mentioned in step 4. Repeat steps 1 through 5 as necessary for every other computer that will have a PCI Linksys wireless access point installed.

Tips & Warnings

• This method of setting up your Linksys wireless access point will allow your computer to communicate directly not only with the computer that is connected to your router, but also to each other computer that has its own compatible access point. You should now be able to share a broadband Internet connection, as well as files and printers, if your network has been set up properly.

Resources

• How to Set Up a Linksys Wireless Router with a DSL Modem
• How to Troubleshoot a Linksys Wireless Router
• How to Set Up a Wireless Network in Windows XP
• How to Set Up a Wireless Network in Windows Vista
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[Smireles]

on 8/14/2009 Thanks for this instructional article about setting up a Linksys Wireless Router. Setting up my router was complicated. 5* recommend.