1Refer to “Setting Up Your Computer” on page 1 to make the hardware connections. You need:

￿For a network connection, see “Connecting to a Network” on page 6. To check a wireless LAN device installation, see “Internet access” on page 37.

￿For a modem, see “Connecting a Modem” on page 7.

2To connect to the Internet:

￿Sign up with an ISP. If you already have an account with an ISP, skip this step and follow the instructions provided by the ISP.

￿If you did not set up the computer for Internet service during the initial setup, do so now by using Online Services:

a Click the Start button. b Click All Programs.

c Click Online Services, and then click Get Online.

d Follow the onscreen instructions to select an ISP and set up Internet service.

NOTE: Online Services provides a list of ISPs; however, you may choose another ISP or transfer an existing account to this computer. To transfer existing accounts, follow the instructions provided by the ISP.

3Connect to the Internet. You must connect through your ISP.

￿For dial-up only, double-click the ISP-provided icon on the desktop, and then log in.

4Open your Web browser and browse the Internet.

You can use any Web browser; most computers have Microsoft Internet Explorer®. To open Internet Explorer:

a Click the Start button.

b Click All Programs, and then click Internet Explorer.

NOTE: If you have issues connecting to the Internet, see “Internet access” on page 37.

Using wireless security features

When you set up a home WLAN or access an existing public WLAN, always enable security features to protect the network from unauthorized access. The most common security levels are Wi-Fi Protected Access Personal (WPA-Personal) and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP).

When setting up a network, use one or more of the following security measures:

￿Enable WPA-Personal or WEP security encryption on the router.

￿Change the default network name (SSID) and password.

￿Set up a firewall.

￿Set security on your Web browser.

Preparing to Use Your Computer 15