How to Attach a Notebook's Wireless to a Wired Network With Firewall Hardware

Notebooks and other small PCs provide users with a portable computing solution while providing an Internet connection. These Wi-Fi compatible computers can connect to secured home networks as well, eliminating the need for long, unwieldy Ethernet cables. Connecting to a home wireless network that has been secured with an SSID is a safe way to work or play online from behind a firewall.

Things You'll Need

• Microsoft Windows
• Wireless access point
• CAT-5 Ethernet cable
• Internet modem
• Wireless access point installation CD
• Notebook PC with Wi-Fi support

Instructions

1. Plug the wireless access point's power supply into the wall.

2. Connect the CAT-5 Ethernet cable to the back of the wireless access point and plug the other end into your internet modem.

3. Insert the wireless access point's installation CD into the computer that is connected to the Internet modem. Click "Next" when the installation wizard loads.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software. When prompted, enter a new SSID password and click "Finish."

5. Click on the Internet icon on your notebook. Click the blue "Refresh" button and then click on the network that you created in the previous steps.

6. Type the SSID that you created when prompted, and then press "Enter."

Tips & Warnings

• The download speed of your network diminishes with distance from the wireless access point. Position it as far away from the Internet modem as you can to maximize bandwidth.

References

• Connected Home Mag: Mixing Wired and Wireless Networking in Your Home
• HP: Wireless and Mobility - Add Wireless to a Wired Network
• Microsoft: Setting Up your Network

Resources

• Cheap Computers: Basic Wireless Networking Tutorial