How to Get Internet Connections for Laptop Computers

Wireless Internet allows you to use your laptop almost anywhere.

Wireless connections allow users to access the Internet from just about anywhere via a laptop computer. Some businesses offer wireless connections to their customers. Schools offer these connections to students. Some homes even have wireless networking, allowing each member of the family to use the Internet from various locations around the house. Cities have even created wireless networks for the entire city. There are many places where you can connect your laptop to the Internet.

Instructions

Automatic Networks

1. Click on the Start menu in the bottom left corner of the screen. Click "Control Panel" from the menu.

2. Click "Network and Internet" to open the Internet menu. Click "Connect to a network" underneath the "Network and Sharing Center" menu.

3. Browse the list of available connections that opens. This list will show the name of each network, whether or not it is secured, and how strong the signal is.

4. Choose a network with a strong connection, if possible. If you choose one that is secured, know the password or security key to access. Click "Connect" when you have chosen a network.

5. Enter the security key if you have chosen a secured network. If you do not know the security key, you will not be able to access the Internet.

Manual Networks

1. Open the "Connect to a network" page located in the "Network and Sharing Center" section of the Network and Internet panel.

2. Click "Set up a connection or network" located underneath the list of available networks.

3. Choose "Manually connect to a wireless network" and press "Next."

4. Enter the name of the network, the security and encryption type, and the security code for the network you will be using. Check the box to "Start this connection automatically," then click "Next" and then "Connect to..." to establish a connection.

Tips & Warnings

• Write down any security codes for your personal wireless network.

References

• Vista 4 Beginners: How to Setup a Wireless Connection
• 7 Tutorials: How to Connect to Wireless Networks