26 Setting Up and Using Your Computer
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HINT: Selecting the
connection method This
computer connects
directly to the Internet
enables the integrated
firewall provided with
Windows XP.
4Complete the checklist and required preparations, and then return to
the Network Setup Wizard.
5Follow the instructions on the screen.
Connecting to the Internet
To connect to the Internet, you need a modem or network connection and
an Internet service provider (ISP), such as AOL or MSN. Your ISP will offer
one or more of the following Internet connection options:
HINT: ISPs may vary by
country. • Dial-up connections that provide Internet access through a phone line.
Dial-up connections are considerably slower than DSL and cable
modem connections.
• DSL connections that provide high-speed Internet access through
your existing phone line. With a DSL connection, you can access the
Internet and use your phone on the same line simultaneously.
• Cable modem connections that provide high-speed Internet access
through your local cable TV line.
If you are using a dial-up connection, connect a telephone cable to the
modem connector on your computer and to the telephone wall jack before
you set up your Internet connection. If you are using a DSL or cable modem
connection, contact your ISP for setup instructions.

Setting Up Your Internet Connection

To set up an AOL or MSN connection:
1Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2Double-click the MSN Explorer or AOL icon on the Windows®
desktop.
3Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
If you do not have an MSN Explorer or AOL icon on your desktop or if you
want to set up an Internet connection with a different ISP:
1Save and close any open files, and exit any open programs.
2Click the Start button and click Control Panel.
3Click Network and Internet Connections.