How to Get Wireless on Vista

Some people want Internet access no matter where they go.

Wireless Internet access allows you to use your computer many places, not just at home. Some people enjoy taking their computer on vacation, while others travel for business and need to stay connected to the office. The way in which you connect to a wireless Internet network varies depending on your operating system, including Windows Vista.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" icon in the lower left-hand corner of the screen.

2. Click on "Connect to" located in the right-hand column of the Start menu.

3. Browse the list of available networks that appears and click on the network to which you want to connect.

4. Click "Connect" when you have selected the appropriate wireless network.

5. Enter the password for the wireless connection if the network is secured. If you are connecting to the Internet through a business that offers free Wi-fi to customers, ask an employee to provide the password to you.

6. Click "Connect" to connect to the selected secure network.

7. Choose if you would like to use this connection as your default and whether you would like to save the connection by checking the appropriate boxes. Click "Close" when you have made your selections.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid accessing sensitive, personal information through an unsecured wireless Internet connection because that information may be open to other network users.

References

• Microsoft Support: How to Connect to a Wireless Network in Windows Vista
• Microsoft TechNet; Connecting to Wireless Networks with Windows Vista; April 2006