This post will explain how to connect your laptop or desktop to your wireless network (WiFi). This way, you can surf the Internet without the need for cables.
In order to use a WiFi connection, you must already have a router or Internet modem available. These devices will allow the transmission of information, acting in the role of “sender”.
This type of equipment usually offers a throughput of 54 Mbps (802.11 g), with a range of about 100 meters, although there are other standards available. This standard range will be suitable for surfing and chatting, but a little limited for download.
How to set up a wireless network (WIFI)
Before you start, you need to check if your PC has a network interface card (NIC). Most PCs have these cards, but we recommend a quick check if you are working with a previous model.
Windows users can check their NIC by clicking Start, and then on PC with the right mouse button > properties.
Click the Hardware tab > Device Manager.
Then click the + sign in front of NIC. The name and brand of the card will appear if your PC has a network card.
By verifying that your PC has a network card, you will need a receiver connected to your PC to receive the router/modem information. Keep in mind that most laptops come with this WiFi receiver.
Use a WiFi USB adapter
A WiFi USB adapter is a very simple and inexpensive solution to connect to a network. You can buy a USB WiFi adapter from the media stores or on the Internet. The latest WiFi adapters can deliver up to 300 Mbps (802.11 n) throughput.
When you buy a USB WiFi Adapter0, make sure that the key matches the standard of the router. (802.11 g is the current and most common standard.)
Install a WiFi card
Another solution is to install a WiFi card on your computer. This solution is more difficult because it involves installing the card on a port on the motherboard (usually PCI). If you want to continue with this option, you must first open the enclosure of your computer and find the corresponding port on your PC motherboard.
A WiFi card can offer a maximum throughput of 300 Mbps (802.11 n) with a longer range than the USB key, making it more comfortable. However, this is only useful if your box has 802.11 n (300 Mbps).
Set up your wireless network
Once you’ve made your purchase, you need to set up your wireless network. To prepare all this, you will need the NIC, the installation CD of your WiFi card or USB key, the security key (WEP or WPA) of your Internet box, and the SSID, or network name of your Internet box.
The safety key can be found usually at the bottom or at the back of your Internet box. If you are not present, please refer to your box’s manual or go to your Internet service provider’s Web page and check the code in your configuration.
The SSID (Network name of your box) is available in the network manual or through the Internet within the parameters of the Internet box.
Set up your wireless network
Once you’ve made your purchase, you need to set up your wireless network. To prepare all this, you will need the NIC, the installation CD of your WiFi card or USB key, the security key (WEP or WPA) of your Internet box, and the SSID, or network name of your Internet box.
The safety key can be found usually at the bottom or at the back of your Internet box. If you are not present, please refer to your box’s manual or go to your Internet service provider’s Web page and check the code in your configuration.
The SSID (Network name of your box) is available in the network manual or through the Internet within the parameters of the Internet box.
