| Here's what you need to know (and do) to | | | | 6. In the "Wireless Networking Connection" |
| connect your laptop to a wireless network and | | | | window, click on the appropriate wireless network. |
| get Internet access. | | | | 7. Check the box that says "Allow me to connect |
| First off, let's talk common sense. Before you | | | | to the selected wireless network." |
| access any wireless network, especially one in a | | | | 8. An icon in the lower right hand corner of your |
| public place, you must have anti-virus software | | | | desktop should eventually appear stating that you |
| installed and up-to-date on your laptop. Your | | | | are connected. |
| laptop should also be current with all Windows | | | | 9. Open your browser and visit any website you |
| Operating System Updates. | | | | want. If authentication is required on the wireless |
| That said, the next thing you need is to have a | | | | network, you will be redirected automatically to a |
| laptop with wireless networking capabilities. If | | | | login page where you'll have to log in using an |
| you're not sure whether yours does, do the | | | | approved Network User Name/ID and the correct |
| following to check it out: | | | | password. |
| 1. Click on Start | Connect To | Show all | | | | That's all it takes. |
| connections, or | | | | Note: If your laptop does not already have built-in |
| 2. Click on Start | Settings | (Control Panel) | | | | | wireless networking, you will need to purchase |
| Network Connections | | | | and install, or have installed, a Wireless Networking |
| 3. Under "LAN or High-Speed Internet" you should | | | | Card. There are many brands of wireless |
| see a wireless connection icon. (If not, see below | | | | networking cards. Just make sure you buy a card |
| about installing a wireless network card). Assuming | | | | that is 802.11b or 802.11g compatible. Linksys |
| you have wireless capabilities, continue on doing | | | | cards are an excellent choice and I recommend |
| the following: | | | | them highly. If you choose another brand, be |
| 4. Right-click on the wireless connection icon. | | | | certain that the card is WiFi Certified. (For a list of |
| 5. In the pop-up menu, select "View Available | | | | 802.11b and 802.11g certified cards, please visit |
| Wireless Networks." | | | | the WiFi Alliance website. |