Wireless Network Connections

Connecting to a W-LAN

Windows XP automatically poles for available wireless access points and networks.

When a W-LAN network is detected XP will attempt connection.

Roll your mouse over the network icon on your task bar to check for connectivity and signal strength.

W-LAN Connection Status

Double click (or tap) on the network icon in the System Tray to access the connection status.

W-LAN connection Status Information includes:

• Connection Status
  
  
• Signal Strength
  
  
• Packets Sent and Received should increment to show network activity
  

Manually Adding an Access Point

If you are not automatically connected to a wireless network you may have to manually add the wireless access point.

1. Select Start -> Control Panel -> Network Connections.

2. Right-click Wireless Network Connection.

3. Select Properties -> Wireless Network tab.

4. Available wireless access points are shown in the Available Networks box.

5. Under Preferred networks Select Add.

6. In the Network Name (SSID) box, enter the name of the access point and check the appropriate boxes, per the network requirements.

Note: You may have to check with the LAN administrators for specific settings (e.g. SSID and WEP if enabled).

Connecting at a Public Hotspot

Hotspots are turning up everywhere:

• Coffee and sandwich shops
• Airports terminals
• Bars

URLs that list hotspots include:

• http://intel.jiwire.com/
• http://www.wi-fihotspotlist.com/

Typical Connection Procedure

1. If your wireless connection is enabled your radio and network icons should be active.
• Use the Motion Dashboard or Network Connections to enable.
2. You may have to manually add the access point.
3. Once your connection is active most service providers have you open the Internet Explorer to enable the connection.
4. Follow the access instructions:
   1. If you are an account member you will be required to log in.
   2. If you are a guest you may have to input credit card information.
   3. Some W-LAN providers charge by the day (24 hours) for temporary accounts.
      • T-Mobile, for example, charges $9.99 per day.