Connecting to a wired network

Connecting to a WLAN

To connect to the WLAN, follow these steps:

1.Be sure that the WLAN device is on. If the device is on, the wireless light is on. If the wireless light is off, press the wireless button.

NOTE: On some models, the wireless light is amber when all wireless devices are off.

2.From the Desktop, click the network status icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.

3.Select your WLAN from the list.

4.Click Connect.

If the WLAN is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a security code. Type the code, and then select OK to complete the connection.

NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, you may be out of range of a wireless router or access point.

NOTE: If you do not see the WLAN you want to connect to, open the Network Sharing Center. To access the Network Sharing Center, from the Start screen, type network and sharing. Select Settings, and then select Network and Sharing Center. Select Set up a new connection or network. A list of options is displayed, allowing you to manually search for and connect to a network or to create a new network connection.

After the connection is made, place the pointer over the network status icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name and status of the connection.

NOTE: The functional range (how far your wireless signals travel) depends on WLAN implementation, router manufacturer, and interference from other electronic devices or structural barriers such as walls and floors.

Using Bluetooth wireless devices

A Bluetooth device provides short-range wireless communications that replace the physical cable connections that traditionally link electronic devices such as the following:

●Computers (desktop, notebook, PDA)

●Phones (cellular, cordless, smart phone)

●Imaging devices (printer, camera)

●Audio devices (headset, speakers)

●Mouse

Bluetooth devices provide peer-to-peer capability that allows you to set up a personal area network (PAN) of Bluetooth devices. For information about configuring and using Bluetooth devices, see the Bluetooth software Help.

A LAN connection uses a network cable, which is sold separately.

WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a modem cable or telephone cable into an RJ-45 (network) jack.

16 Chapter 3 Connecting to a network