As your network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to access the Internet.

For help in setting up your WLAN, see the information provided by your router manufacturer or your ISP.

Configuring a wireless router

For help in setting up a WLAN, see the information provided by your router manufacturer or your ISP.

NOTE: It is recommended that you initially connect your new wireless computer to the router by using the network cable provided with the router. When the computer successfully connects to the Internet, disconnect the cable, and access the Internet through your wireless network.

Protecting your WLAN

When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect your network from unauthorized access. WLANs in public areas (hotspots) like coffee shops and airports may not provide any security. If you are concerned about the security of your computer when connected to a hotspot, limit your network activities to email that is not confidential and basic Internet surfing.

Wireless radio signals travel outside the network, so other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected signals. Take the following precautions to protect your WLAN:

●Use a firewall.

A firewall checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network, and discards any suspicious items. Firewalls are available in both software and hardware. Some networks use a combination of both types.

●Use wireless encryption.

Wireless encryption uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data that is transmitted over the network. For more information, from the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.

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 white. 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 Windows desktop, tap or click the network status icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.

3.Select your WLAN from the list.

Connecting to a wireless network 17