Dell 1200 Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

Setting Up and Using Networks 57
2 Select an option under Choose a connection option .
3 Click Next , and then follow the instructions in the wizard.
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
A WLAN is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with
each other over the air waves rather than through a network cable connected
to each computer. In a WLAN, a radio communications device called an
access point or wireless router connects network computers and provides
Internet, or network, access. The access point or wireless router and the
wireless networ k card in the compu ter communicate by broadcasting data
from their antennas over the air waves.
What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection
Before you can set up a WLAN, you need:
• High-speed (broadband) Internet access (such as cable or DSL)
• A broadband modem that is connected and working
• A wireless router or access point
• A wireless network card for each computer that you want to connect to
your WLAN
• A network cable with a network (RJ-45) connector
Checking Your Wireless Network Card
Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the
computer has a variety of configurations. To confirm that your computer has
a wireless network card and to determine the type of card, use one of the
following:
•The Start button and the Connect To option
• The order confirmation for your computer
Start Button and Connect To Option
In Microsoft Windows XP, click Start→ Connect To→ Show all connections.
NOTE: If your computer is set to the Classic Start menu option, click Start →
Settings
→ Network Connections to view your network connections.
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