How to Set Up a Wireless Internet Connection on a Laptop
Portability is one of the biggest advantages of laptops. This is enhanced when laptops are not physically connected to a router. Laptops typically have a wireless Internet connection that uses low-frequency radio waves to communicate with a router. A wireless Internet connection also requires the laptop to have a wireless network card.
Items Needed:
- Router
- Obtain service from an Internet service provider. A wireless laptop can use the same Internet service that your regular desktop computer uses. Many ISPs provide Internet service through the same coaxial cable that provides television service. This is typically the fastest Internet service available to residential users.
- Install a wireless router. This device receives signals from the Internet connection and relays them to the laptop via radio waves. The installation of a wireless router generally involves connecting one end of a coaxial cable to the cable outlet in the wall. Connect the other end of this cable to the wireless router.
- Turn your laptop on, and allow your network card to detect the wireless router automatically.
- Go to your control panel if the card does not detect the router automatically.
- Start your Internet browser and enter the IP address provided by your router’s manufacturer to access the router. The router manufacturer will provide instructions for configuring the router. Click the icon labeled “Network Connections” or something similar. Select the menu item labeled "Detect Wireless Networks." The menu will display a list of all the wireless networks your laptop could detect. Select the desired network to connect your laptop to the Internet.