How Do I Get Wireless Internet on My Dell Laptop?

The Wi-Fi button, shown here, verifies your Dell laptop has a wireless adapter.

Having a Dell laptop gives you the convenience of traveling to multiple locations while still having access to the Internet, if properly set up. Many Dell laptops have wireless networking adapters pre-installed. Refer to your computer's literature to verify if a wireless adapter is installed in your unit. Otherwise, purchase a wireless adapter from a computer store (many connect via USB).

Instructions

1. 

   These signals depict your laptop having Wi-Fi access.

   Click on the Wi-Fi switch on your Dell laptop. Depending on your laptop's model, the Wi-Fi button can be pressed or slid to activate your Wi-Fi network. The Wi-Fi icon is usually depicted as a radio signal and may sometimes light up on the status bar next to your On/Off button when it is ready to receive a wireless signal.

2. Click on your "Start" menu and navigate to your Control Panel.

3. Click on "Network and Internet," then click on "Network and Sharing Center" and select "Set Up a New Network." Lastly, click on "Connect to the Internet." If the option of connecting to the Internet is not available, click on "Connect to a Network."

4. Click on the wireless signal you would like to connect to. For example, if you are in a Starbucks, you may see an Internet connection labeled "Starbucks." If you are in someone's home, the connection may be titled as the brand name of the wireless router or the individual's name.

5. Type in a password if prompted. Many wireless signals are protected from unauthorized access by an eight- to 10-character password. Your computer will automatically attempt to connect to the Internet.

References

• Microsoft at Home: 4 Steps to Set Up Your Home Wireless Network