How to Reinstall Wireless in Windows XP

Regaining access to the wireless Internet is as easy as installing a few files onto your computer.

For one reason or another, you might find yourself without the ability to access the Internet wirelessly after a computer crash. If your computer was out of warranty at the time of the crash, for instance, the version of Windows XP installed on your computer may be pirated or otherwise incomplete. No matter your situation, regaining access to your computer's wireless capability is as easy as installing some files, or "drivers." How you do this will depend on the particulars of your situation.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP "Service Pack 2" CD (Step 1)
• USB flash drive (Steps 2 and 3)

Instructions

1. Insert your Windows XP "Service Pack 2" (SP2) CD into your computer's CD or DVD drive. Follow the prompts on the screen until you get to the "Drivers" menu, at which point point you'll need to tick the box next to "Wireless Internet Drivers." Continue through the wizard until you reach the end, when it will install the drivers onto your computer.

2. Use a friend's computer and point your Web browser to one of the links listed in the "Resources" section. Download and install any of the SP2 packages and transfer the application onto your USB flash drive.

3. Insert your flash drive into your own computer's USB port and transfer the service pack onto your hard drive. Double-click the application and follow the wizard's instructions, making sure to tick the box next "Wireless Internet" in the "Drivers" section when it comes up. Complete the wizard to install the drivers.

4. Restart your computer and bring it within range of a wireless network. Double-click on the "Wireless Network Connection" icon in your taskbar to select a network, making sure to input a password if one is necessary. Launch a browser window to begin using the Internet.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your computer to a repair specialist if installing new drivers doesn't allow you to connect to the Internet--this might indicate a problem with your wireless card itself.

References

• Tips Dr.: Windows XP Drivers

Resources

• Soft 32: Download Windows XP SP2
• Kioskea: Download Windows XP SP2 (Free)
• Software Patch: Download Windows XP Service Pack 2 (Full Package)