How to Connect Dial-Up to a Wireless Laptop

A laptop with wireless capabilities can connect to a nearby wireless Internet connection. A wired Internet connection can be converted into a wireless connection for the laptop with the proper setup and equipment. Commonly, DSL or cable high-speed Internet is connected to a wireless router that transmits a signal, but dial-up Internet can also be connected to a wireless router.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wireless router with DB-9 connection
• Standard phone line cord

1. Connect the phone line cord to the DB-9 COM port and plug the other end of the line into your telephone jack. Turn on the router and the laptop computer.

2. Turn on the wireless on the laptop by going to "Control Panel" and selecting "Network Connections." You can also turn on the wireless by locating the small wireless icon (a computer with green curved lines next to it) in the lower right-hand side of the screen. Right-click the icon and select "Turn Wireless On."

3. Wait for the laptop to detect the wireless router and connect to it. You may see a prompt that says "Limited Connectivity." In the router's manual, locate the website address to visit to set up the router. Enter this address into your web browser window exactly as it is shown in the manual and press "Enter."

4. Follow the on-screen setup instructions for setting up the wireless modem for dial-up. You will need to configure the modem according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure the option for "Dial Out for Connection" is selected.

5. Open the software for your your dial-up Internet service provider. Click on "Connection Settings" and select "Wireless or Local Area Network." Allow the software to detect the wireless router and click "Connect."

Tips & Warnings

• You can buy a wireless router that has a DB-9 COM port from a computer or electronics store. This connection port allows a standard telephone line to be connected to the router. The DB-9 COM port must be present, as a standard high-speed wireless router will not work with dial-up Internet. These routers cost around $50 to $100 U.S. dollars. The wireless router may continue to try to connect to the Internet and dial a connection even when you are not using the computer. Make sure the computer is turned off and power down the wireless router when not in use.

References

• Example of Router with dial up port.
• Wirless Router Dial Up