How to Set Up Wireless Internet for Windows XP

Router

To set up a wireless connection for Windows XP, you must have a modem, an Internet service provider, a wireless network adapter installed in your PC (most computers and laptops manufactured after 2000 have wireless support), Ethernet cables and a wireless router. Once you have all of the necessary equipment configured properly, you can use Windows XP to quickly set up and configure your wireless network.

Things You'll Need

• Ethernet cable
• Wireless router
• Modem

Instructions

1. Remove the AC adapter from the modem. Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the "WAN," "WLAN" or "Internet" port on the back of your wireless router.

2. Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on the back of your modem.

3. Connect an Ethernet cable to the "1" port on the back of your wireless router. Connect the end of this cable to the Ethernet port on your computer.

4. Reconnect the AC adapter to the modem, then plug in the wireless router. Power on your computer. Windows XP should automatically detect your router.

5. Click "Start," then "Run." Type "cmd.exe" (without quotes) into the dialog box. Type "ipconfig" into Command Prompt, then hit "Enter."

6. Check Command Prompt for a field labeled "Default Gateway." Open a Web browser and type the group of digits displayed next to "Default Gateway" into the address bar.

7. Hit "Enter." Follow the instructions as shown in your router's manual to log in to your router's setup page and configure your wireless router. The way to do this will depend on your router's make and model.

Tips & Warnings

• Ethernet cables look very similar to phone cables. Most modems and routers come with Ethernet cables included.

• Some routers may require you to install software to your PC before you connect the router to the PC.

• Once your router is properly configured, you can remove the Ethernet cable connecting the PC to the router.

• If your computer does not have a wireless network adapter installed, you can insert a wireless USB network adapter into an open USB port on your PC.

References

• Windows XP: Set Up a Wireless Network