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How do I find out what type of security my network is using?
You must know the WEP key or WPA passphrase and the type of security (WEP, WPA, or WPA2) used on the wireless
network. To obtain this information, see the documentation that came with your wireless access point (wireless
router), see the Web page associated with the wireless access point, or consult your system support person.
Note: The WEP key or WPA passphrase is not the same as the password for the wireless access point. The password
allows you to access the wireless access point settings. The WEP key or WPA passphrase allows printers and computers
to join your wireless network.
How are home networks configured?
For desktop computers, laptops, and printers to communicate with each other over a network, they must be
connected by cables and/or have wireless network adapters built in or installed in them.
There are many different ways a network can be set up. Five common examples appear below.
Note: The printers in the following diagrams represent printers with internal print servers built in to them so that
they can communicate over a network.
Wired network example
• A desktop computer, a laptop, and a printer are connected by Ethernet cables to a hub, router, or switch.
• The network is connected to the Internet through a DSL or cable modem.
Wireless network examples
Scenario 1: Mixed wired and wireless connections on a network with Internet access
•
All computers and printers connect to the network through a router with Ethernet and wireless capabilities.
• Some computers and printers connect wirelessly to the router; others connect over a wired connection.
Networking
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