3
Connecting to a network
You can explore the globe and access information from millions of websites using your computer and
a wired or wireless network connection. This chapter will help you get connected to that world.
Connecting to a wireless network
Wireless technology transfers information across radio waves instead of wires. Your computer may
be equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:
●
Wireless local area network (WLAN) device—Connects the computer to wireless local area
networks. In a WLAN, the mobile wireless device in your computer communicates with a
wireless router or a wireless access point.
●
Bluetooth® device—Creates a personal area network (PAN) to connect to other Bluetooth-
enabled devices such as computers, phones, printers, headsets, speakers, and cameras. In a
PAN, each device communicates directly with other devices, and devices must be relatively
close together.
For more information about wireless technology, see the information and website links provided in
Help and Support. From the Start screen, type
h
, and then select
Help and Support
.
Using the wireless controls
The Network and Sharing Center allows you to set up a connection or network, connect to a network,
and diagnose and repair network problems.
To use the Network and Sharing Center:
1.
From the Start screen, type
c
, and then select
Control Panel
.
2.
Select
Network and Internet
, and the select
Network and Sharing Center
.
For more information, go to Help and Support. From the Start screen, type
h
, and then select
Help
and Support
.
Using an Internet service provider
When you are setting up Internet access in your home, you must establish an account with an
Internet service provider (ISP). To purchase Internet service and a modem, contact a local ISP. The
ISP will help set up the modem, install a network cable to connect your wireless router to the modem,
and test the Internet service.
NOTE:
Your ISP will give you a user ID and a password to use for Internet access. Record this
information and store it in a safe place.
14
Chapter 3 Connecting to a network
Summary of Contents for Personal Computer
Page 1: ...User Guide ...
