Dell PP22L manual Setting Up a Network, Wireless Local Area Network, Windows XP

Setting Up a Network

Windows XP

1Click Start→All Programs→Accessories→Communications→Network Setup Wizard→Next→Checklist for creating a network.

NOTE: Selecting the connection method labeled This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2).

2Complete the checklist.

3Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions in the wizard.

Windows Vista

1Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Connect To→ Set up a connection or network.

2Select an option under Choose a connection option.

3Click Next, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.

Wireless Local Area Network

A wireless local area network (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 network card in the computer 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

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Setting Up and Using Networks