Dell PP29L Setting Up a Network, Wireless Local Area Network, Checking Your Wireless Network Card

Setting Up a Network

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.

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

•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:

•Start button and Connect To option

•Check the order confirmation for your computer

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Setting Up and Using Networks