How to Wirelessly Use a USB Internet Connection

Connecting USB wireless adapter takes just a few steps.

For computers without a wireless adapter installed, it may seem impossible to connect to the Internet wirelessly. This is not the case when using an external USB wireless Internet adapter. These devices can cost between $10 and $200, depending on the strength and range of the wireless signal you will need to pick up. Once you connect the wireless adapter to the computer and set it up, all you will need to do is establish a connection to the network.

Things You'll Need

• USB wireless adapter

Instructions

1. Purchase the USB wireless adapter. You can find them at electronics stores, such as Radio Shack, Best Buy or Staples, or at a discount store, such as Walmart or Target. Pay attention to the packaging to see how powerful the adapter is in terms of range and strength. There is a diagram on the back of the box that shows the maximum distance the adapter can be from the router to pick up the signal.

2. Install the adapter drivers. The drivers are on the installation disk that came along with the adapter. Place the CD in the computer and follow the installation wizard to install the adapter.

3. Insert the adapter into an open USB port. Your computer will recognize the device if you installed the drivers first. The adapter will be added to the network adapters available on the computer.

4. Connect the adapter to the network. Open "Network Connections" by clicking on "Start," and then selecting "Network and Internet." Click on "Change adapter settings." The new adapter should be listed. The name of it is similar to the type and model of your wireless adapter. Right-click on it and then click "Connect to a wireless network." Click on the connection you want to connect to and then click "Connect."

References

• Windows.com: Setting up a wireless network