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CHAPTER 7: Wireless Networking www.gateway.com
88
Connecting to hotspots
Caution
Because hotspots typically do not enable
any security measures, the data that you
are sending and receiving may be
vulnerable. Any of the files on your
notebook that are marked for sharing
may be accessible to other users on the
network.
Important
If you want to access your company’s
network through a hotspot, contact your
network administrator for setup
information. You will probably be routed
through a VPN connection for maximum
security.
A hotspot is a high-speed wireless Internet access point available in public
locations such as airports, airline clubs, libraries, book shops, and coffee houses.
While you are away from your home or office, hotspots let you send and receive
e-mail, surf Web sites, or access your company’s network.
You usually need to sign up to get access through hotspot connections. During
the sign-up process, the vendor will provide you with the necessary connection
information.
To access any new network, obtain information about the network (such as the
SSID, password key, and security settings to use) and enter that information.
Adding devices to your network
Adding a desktop computer to your network
After you have your wireless network up and running, you can add your desktop
computer to your wireless network. To add a desktop computer to the network,
purchase a wireless PCI card or USB adapter for your desktop computer so it can
communicate with your network wirelessly.
Adding a printer to your network
Instead of plugging a printer into your notebook, you can add a printer to your
wireless network. To add a printer to the network, do one of the following:
■ Use a printer that has built-in wireless networking.
■ Connect your printer to your networked desktop computer, then share the
printer. For information about sharing printers, see “Using the network”
on page 86.
■ Connect your printer to your access point if the access point includes a
USB or parallel port. For more information, see the instructions that came
with your access point.
■ Use a wireless print server.