HP OmniBook 6100, Manual

Page: 69 / 225

Modem and Network Connections
Making Wireless Connections
Corporate Evaluator’s Guide 69
Hint
If you are connecting to an access point or computer that is using Lucent/Agere-based
software, you must set up compatible encryption on your computer. You can enter the
encryption key manually. If you know only the Lucent/Agere passphrase, you must
convert it to the corresponding key. If this option is not available on the Encryption tab,
click Start, Programs, HP Wireless LAN, and use the encryption key converter.
To prepare for connections (Windows XP)
Before you can connect your computer to a particular 802.11 wireless network, you have
to configure the computer for the specific wireless connection.
Connecting to an Existing Wireless Network
You can connect to an access point that gives you access to a local area network, or you
can connect directly to other computers in an “adhoc” network.
1. Click Start, Settings, Control Panel, Network and Internet Connections, Network
Connections.
2. Double-click the wireless connection to show its status, then click Properties.
3. On the General tab, edit network settings as needed for your local network. See your
network administrator. You can also display an icon in the taskbar when connected to
a network.
4. On the Wireless Networks tab, view the wireless networks available within range.
Each network SSID is listed. Click the network you want and click Configure.
5. If the wireless network uses standard encrypted communication, uncheck the
automatic key option, then select the following parameters—see your network
administrator for the required settings:
•
Key: ASCII passphrase or hexadecimal key string.
•
Key format: ASCII for passphrase, hexadecimal for key string.
•
Key length: smaller number for 64-bit encryption, larger number for 128-bit.
6. Click OK to save the configuration. This network is added to your list of preferred
networks.
The computer automatically connects to the first preferred network that’s within range if
wireless communication is turned on—see “To turn wireless communication on and off,”
below.