What Is Needed for a Wireless Network?


To connect to the Internet wirelessly, the following hardware and services are needed. Without these items, connecting to the Internet is not possible (the range is typically limited to less than 200 feet or 60 meters).
Computer with a wireless Network Adapter - This is usually a device located inside the computer. If you do not know if you have a wireless network adapter installed, contact the manufacturer of the computer to find out.

Wireless Broadband Router - A router is used to connect all of your computers to a wireless network. The router also provides a way to connect to the Internet.

Broadband Internet Service- Telephone companies (also known as DSL, which uses a telephone line) and cable TV companies usually offer Internet service.

Broadband Modem - Normally, a broadband modem can be rented or purchased from the ISP.

Creating a Wi-Fi Connection
1. Make sure to have all the necessary equipment and services before starting the connection process. For more information, see the What Is Needed for a Network?section.

2. Make sure to have the wireless network name (SSID). For more information, see the What Is My Network Name? section.

3. When encryption is enabled, it is necessary to know what it is. For help finding the security key, see the What Is My Security Key? section.

If you are not sure if encryption is enabled, it will be determined during the connection process, and you can reference the What Is My Security Key?section at that point.

What Is My Network Name?


The wireless computer and wireless router need to be put side-by-side (1 to 3 feet away from each other).

Perform one of the following tasks:
Move the wireless computer near the wireless router.
Move the wireless router near the wireless computer.

When the wireless computer is a desktop, it is easier to move the wireless router to the desktop (you do not need to move or turn off the broadband modem because Internet access is not needed at this time, but any other computer that is connected to the wireless router is not able to access the Internet during this process).

Make sure the router is turned on after moving it.

When the wireless broadband router is moved, you have to move it back to its original location and reconnect to the broadband modem when finished.

The Computer Didn't Connect


When the computer does not connect to the wireless network, perform the following tasks.

Reduce Interference
Place the wireless computer and wireless router in clear line of sight and within 10 to 20 feet from each other (the computer or wireless router may have to be moved).
Do not place the wireless router under a cabinet or desk.

Devices that you can turn off that may be causing interference include, but are not limited to:
cordless phones
cellular phones
wireless game controllers
wireless cameras
wireless baby monitors
microwave ovens
wireless speakers