How to Add a Laptop to a Wireless Network in Windows XP & Vista

You can connect to a wireless network from anywhere you get signal.

Laptop users can access the Internet and shared peripherals through local wireless networks. These networks can be provided by other computers or by a wireless router. Windows makes it easy to connect to these networks, especially on laptops. Setting up the network connection in Windows takes only a few clicks. The Internet connection, if any, then completes automatically.

Instructions

Windows XP

1. Click on the Start Menu, then move your cursor over "Connect To." Select "Wireless Network Connection."

2. Click "View Wireless Networks."

3. Select the network you wish to connect to, then click "Connect."

4. Input the password for the network, if the network is protected.

5. Wait for the connection to complete.

Windows Vista

1. Click on the Start Menu, then click "Connect To."

2. Select the network you want to connect to, then click "Connect."

3. Input the network key or password if prompted.

4. Wait for the connection to complete.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also get to your network settings right from your system tray, located near the time display on the main toolbar. Right-click the wireless network icon -- which looks like a computer next to a sound wave in XP and two computers with a globe in the lower-right in Vista. Then select "Connect to a Network" or "View Available Wireless Networks."

• Check the signal strength of the network before making the connection. Low signal strength may give you problems later on. You may need to move the computer closer to the source of the network connection.

References

• Microsoft: How to connect to a wireless network in Windows Vista