How to Set Up Wireless Internet at Home Using Windows Vista

You can't have wireless Internet without a wireless router.

Setting up wireless Internet at home using Windows Vista requires two configurations. First, you need to configure a wireless router or wireless router/modem combination with the correct wireless name and security key. Second, you need to configure the computers using Windows Vista to connect to the wireless network.

Things You'll Need

• Wireless router or router/modem combination device
• Internet modem (optional)
• Ethernet cable

Instructions

Configure the Router

1. Connect an Ethernet cable from one of the four LAN ports on a wireless router or wireless router/modem combo device to your Windows Vista computer.

2. Open a Web browser and type in the address to access the router utility. The address should be similar to "192.168.X.X." Refer to the router's manual for the specific address, which may also be printed on the router itself.

3. Log in to the router utility. A common default username and password are "admin" and "password," respectively. Refer to the router's user guide for specific login instructions.

4. Navigate to the wireless settings on the router utility. This section may be labeled as "Wireless," "Wireless Settings," "Basic Wireless" or a similar variation.

5. Enter the wireless name (SSID) and save the settings. If the wireless security settings are in the same menu, select the security type and key (password) here. If not, click on "Security" or "Encryption" under the wireless menu to enter the security password information. Save the information and exit the router utility.

6. Disconnect the Ethernet cable from the computer and connect it to an Internet modem. If you are using a wireless router/modem combo device, just disconnect the Ethernet cable altogether.

Configuring Vista

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

2. Double-click on the wireless network with the SSID you configured on the router.

3. Enter the wireless security information, then click "Connect."

References

• Microsoft Support: How to Connect to a Wireless Network in Windows Vista