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If Something Goes Wrong
Wireless networking problems
❖If another computer is on the same network, verify that it has
network access, and can connect to the Internet. If, for
example, the other computer cannot browse to a public Web
site, the ISP’s (Internet Service Provider) service may be
disrupted.
❖Verify that the Service Set Identifier (SSID), or network
name, is correct - i.e., that it matches the SSID assigned to the
access point you are attempting to connect through. SSIDs are
case-sensitive.
❖Check the Windows® Control Panel's Device Manager to verify
that the Wi-Fi® adapter is recognized by the Windows®
operating system, and that the driver is loaded. To access
the Device Manager, from the Start screen begin typing
Computer, or if you are in the Desktop screen, move your
pointer over the upper or lower right corner of the screen.
When the Windows® Charms appear click the Search ()
Charm, and then type Computer. Click Control Panel,
System and Security, and then System. Carefully note any
error messages - these will be very helpful if you should
confer with a support technician at a later time.
To enable or disable wireless communication, use the F12 key. For
more information see “TOSHIBA Function Keys” on page 153.
❖Use IPCONFIG to verify that the computer has a useful IP
address - one other than the private address of
169.254.xxx.xxx assigned by Windows®.
1From the Start screen, type Cmd.
2Click Command Prompt.
3Enter IPCONFIG/ALL, and then press ENTER.
The IP address for each active network adapter will be
displayed.
❖Connect your computer directly to your router or broadband
modem, by plugging a standard CAT5 Ethernet patch cable
(sold separately) into your computer's RJ45 Ethernet port. If
your connection problem disappears, the problem lies in the
Wi-Fi® part of your network.
❖If you have enabled any security provisions (closed system,
MAC address filtering, Wired Equivalent Privacy [WEP], etc.),
check the access point vendor's Web site for recent firmware
upgrades. Problems with WEP keys, in particular, are
frequently addressed in new firmware releases.
NOTE