How to Obtain and Connect to Wireless Internet

Obtaining and connecting to wireless Internet access is rather simple and can be easily accomplished by both the residential and business user.  The result is well worth the effort and will become the biggest advantage to using your laptop PC.

To set up a wireless connection, you must have a broadband Internet connection.  This service can be obtained from your local cable company at a monthly cost.  The service is provided to you through a high speed cable connection set up in your business or residence.

Once your broadband Internet connection is installed, you will need to purchase a wireless router and a wireless network adapter.  The wireless router acts as a base for your broadband Internet connection and converts the connection into wireless access.  The wireless network adapter is needed if you have an older computer that does not have wireless capability. The adapter will assist your computer in connecting with the router.  If you have a newer computer with built-in wireless capability, there is no need to purchase a wireless network adapter.

When connecting the wireless router you will need to disconnect the DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) modem that was installed with your broadband Internet connection.  Connect the router to your DSL modem by disconnecting the network cable from the back of your computer and connecting it to the Internet port located in the back of the router.

Reconnect the DSL modem and wait until it connects to the Internet before engaging the wireless router.  You will know when your router is functioning properly when the light is on signaling an Internet connection.

You will need to configure the wireless router through Internet Explorer.  This is easily accomplished by typing in the URL address and identification number of the router.  This information can be located in the instructions that are included with the purchase of the router.  You will need to read the instructions due to the fact that the configuration settings procedure will vary according to the brand of the wireless router you purchased.

If your computer has built-in wireless capability it should automatically locate the wireless connection.  If it is necessary to go with the network adapter, you will need to connect it to an available USB port on your computer.  For Windows XP and higher, it will automatically find the adapter and then walk you through the configuration.

For best results, the wireless router should be placed in a central location and away from metal objects that could potentially interfere with the wireless signal.  If the signal tends to be consistently weak you can always employ a wireless repeater to extend the range and strengthen the signal.

If you have cordless telephones in your business or residence, be sure to set your wireless router on a different channel for wireless Internet other than the channel used by your telephone.  If you omit this step, your Internet connection will pick up the telephone signal and constantly disconnect every time the telephone rings.

Wireless connectivity means greater mobility and flexibility when it comes to your computing experience and expansion of your computer’s capabilities thanks to high speed wireless.