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52 Setting Up and Using Networks
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Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft
®
Windows
®
XP
Operating System
1
Click
Start
→
All Programs
→
Accessories
→
Communications
→
Network Setup Wizard
→
Next
→
Checklist for creating a network
.
NOTE: Selecting the connection method labeled This computer connects directly to the Internet
enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2).
2
Complete the checklist.
3
Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions in the wizard.
Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows Vista
®
Operating System
1
Click the Windows Vista Start button
, ,
and click
Connect To
→
Set up a connection or
network
.
2
Select an option under
Choose a connection option
.
3
Click
Next
, and then follow the instructions in the wizard.
Wireless Local Area Network
A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a series of interconnected computers that communicate
with each other over the air waves rather than through a network cable connected to each
computer. In a WLAN, a radio communications device called an access point or wireless router
connects network computers and provides Internet, or network, access. The access point or wireless
router and the wireless network card in the computer communicate by broadcasting data from their
antennas over the air waves.
What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection
Before you can set up a WLAN, you need:
• High-speed (broadband) Internet access (such as cable or DSL)
• A broadband modem that is connected and working
• A wireless router or access point
• A wireless network card for each computer that you want to connect to your WLAN
• A network cable with a network (RJ-45) connector