How to Connect to Security-Enabled Wireless Network

Wireless networks can be a convenient way to connect to the Internet, especially with mobile devices like laptop computers. When searching for available wireless networks, you may find that some connections are called unsecured networks and others are secured networks. Secured networks are those that have been set up with security passwords and encryption by the network administrator. You need the password of a secured network before you can a log on.

Things You'll Need

• Wireless network password

Instructions

Connect to a Secured Network in Windows XP

1. Click "Start," and select "Control Panel." Double-click "Network Connections."

2. Right-click on your wireless network connection in the list and select "View Available Wireless Networks."

3. Wait for a list of wireless networks to appear. Select the secured network that you want to connect to, and click "Connect." Wait until a prompt appears asking for the network password or key.

4. Type the network password into the prompt and press "Enter." If you don't know the network password, you can ask the network's creator. Wireless connections in public places like hotels and restaurants sometimes require passwords. The staff at these locations often will be able to provide you with the correct password.

Connect to a Secured Network in Windows Vista

1. Click "Start," and then click "Connect To."

2. Select the secured wireless network in the list of available networks, and then click "Connect."

3. Type the network password into the security prompt that appears, and then press "Enter."

Tips & Warnings

• Wireless networks are commonly secured with passwords to prevent unauthorized use of network resources. If you don't know created a certain secured wireless network, you should not try to connect to it.

References

• ComputerNetworkHelp: Simple Way to Connect to Wireless Network in Windows XP
• Microsoft: How to connect to a wireless network in Windows Vista