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104 Setting Up and Using Networks
This section provides general procedures for connecting to a network using
wireless technology. Specific network names and configuration details vary.
See "Wireless Local Area Network" on page 101 for more information about
how to prepare for connecting your computer to a WLAN.
Your wireless network card requires specific software and drivers for
connecting to a network. The software is already installed.
NOTE: If the software is removed or corrupted, follow the instructions in the user
documentation for your wireless network card. Verify the type of wireless network
card installed in your computer and then search for that name on the Dell™ Support
website at support.dell.com. For information on the type of wireless network card
that is installed in your computer, see "Checking Your Wireless Network Card" on
page 101.
Determining the Wireless Network Device Manager
Depending on the software installed on your computer, different wireless
configuration utilities may manage your network devices:
• Your wireless network card’s client utility
• The Windows XP or Windows Vista operating system
To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless
network card in Windows XP:
1
Click
Start
→
Settings
→
Control Panel
→
Network Connections
.
2
Right-click the
Wireless Network Connection
icon, and then click
View
Available Wireless Networks
.
If the Choose a wireless network window states Windows cannot configure
this connection, the wireless network card’s client utility is managing the
wireless network card.
If the Choose a wireless network window states Click an item in the list
below to connect to a wireless network in range or to get more information,
the Windows XP operating system is managing the wireless network card.
To determine which wireless configuration utility is managing your wireless
network card in Windows Vista:
1
Click
→
Connect To→ Manage wireless networks.
2
Double-click a profile to open the wireless network properties screen.