I recently purchased a Sony Vaio with a wireless capabilities. When I went to setup a wireless network with my desktop to share files and Internet access I ran into a few problems. For any of you out there that are having trouble setting up your Windows Vista network, you need not to worry as I went through all of the frustration that is involved so that you don’t have to. So for all of my trouble, here is a step by step guide for you to follow.
Step 1
First and foremost you need to make sure that your computer or laptop has a wireless device either attached to it or installed internally. A lot of new computers and laptops now come with these preinstalled. On my latop I have the wireless technology preinstalled, whereas my desktop computer hadn’t, so I had to buy a wireless router to connect it to a wireless network. If you are connecting to a wireless network with your wireless router make sure that you install the drivers for the router first.
Step 2
Once you have the the router and drivers installed you need to configure you access point or router to the correct settings. To do this you should follow your manual as routers can sometimes vary. For most routers if you type 192.168.1.1 into your browser it will give the router setup page. You will be prompted for a username and password, these can be found with your manual. Once you have loaded the setup page you can click on the wireless tab and setup the networks SSID, which is the networks name i.e. Home Network, James Network, to make it easier from here on in we will use the name WLANHome. Then set the password. When you are selecting the security type there are 2 different types WEP and WPA. If you have the option, select WPA as it is a newer and more secure form of protecting for you wireless network. Click the wireless network icon in the notification area in the task bar. You will be presented by the connect to a network window. Select the WLANHome network and click on connect.
Step 3
If your are connecting to a network that is unsecured you will get a warning screen. If you are connecting to a public network, such as in a hotel or public area that offers free wireless Internet, you are connecting to the network at your own risk as this is considered unsafe. Most public networks are like this otherwise users would not be able to connect to it. If you are sure that you want to connect to the network click “Connect anyway”.
Step 4
Once you access your network you will be asked for a security key or passphrase. Enter the security key that you entered on the router setup screen. Click save this network so that the next time you power up your PC or laptop in the area it will automatically connect you. The computer will then verify the passphrase and then it will ask you if you are connected to a public network or a home network or a work network, select the option which best suits your situation. If you are in a public place select the public option as this will prevent other users from see your files. Now you are connected to the network, Congratulations!!
Sometimes you might run into a few problems, just follow the on-screen instructions and vista will sort the problem out itself or will advise you on how to do so.
By: Michael Folan
Posts Tagged ‘Ssid’
Secure Your Home Wireless Network And Keep Hackers Out
October 7th, 2009
One of the most important, yet under-implemented features of any home wireless network is security. Many people worry only about file sharing and network printing. But many people underestimate the need for security or simply do not understand it. Security is important because unlike conventional wired networks, wireless signals are transmitted across a broader spectrum and thus can be easily picked up.
With the ever growing threat of identity theft you want to take the steps necessary to secure your home wireless network. There are some minor threats and major threats to your personal information. On the minor side an intruder may easily connect to your unsecured wireless network and use it for free internet access. This is called piggybacking. These are minor threats to your privacy.
A major threat is a hacker who is looking to attack your network and hack into it and access your files and personal data. Once they have this they can easily start stealing your identity or selling it to someone who will.
Wireless security can easily be implemented by following a few guidelines. One of the most important features is MAC address filtering. Each computer has a unique MAC address. In your network configuration you enter the MAC addresses of your PCs and laptops. Any other computer that is not specified in your network will be blocked from accessing it.
Another important network security feature is disabling the broadcast of the SSID, or name of your network. It is best to refer to the manufacturer’s documentation for specifics. Most of the required security features are built in the wireless router and this is the first point that needs to be secured. Many of the security settings are turned off by default. Make sure you turn them on for best security.
You can secure and manage your network yourself if you have the time or you can buy a home networking software package that does it for you automatically. There are some good programs out there for under $30 that will secure and repair your home network.
By: Wallace Renckers
