12
Notebook Essentials
Chapter 3: What's next?
Step 1: Purchase high-speed Internet service
If you already have high-speed Internet service (DSL, cable, or satellite), begin with the
“
Step 2: Purchase and install a wireless router
” section. If you do not have high-speed
Internet service, follow these steps:
1. Contact a local ISP to purchase high-speed Internet service and a DSL or cable modem.
The ISP helps you to set up the modem, install a network cable to connect your wireless
computer to the modem, and test the Internet service.
2. Your ISP gives you a User ID and password to access the Internet. Record this
information and store it in a safe place.
Step 2: Purchase and install a wireless router
Read this section carefully before you install the wireless router using the router
manufacturer's instructions and your wireless computer. If you need technical assistance
during the router installation, contact the router manufacturer.
✎
It is recommended that you temporarily connect your new wireless computer to the
router by using the network cable provided with the router. This ensures that the
computer can access the Internet.
1. Be sure that the wireless light on the computer is amber. If the wireless light is white, the
wireless function is on. Press the wireless action key (
f12
) to turn off the wireless
function. For help locating the wireless action key, refer to the
Notebook PC User Guide
in Help and Support.
2. During the router installation, the router manufacturer's software allows you to change
the network name (SSID) and enable security to protect the privacy of your wireless
network. Many routers are shipped with a default network name and with security
disabled. If you change the default network name or enable security during the router
setup, record the information and store it in a safe place. You need this information
when you configure the computer and any other computers to access the router.
✎
If you do not enable security, an unauthorized wireless user can access the data on
the computer and use your Internet connection without your knowledge. For more
information on securing your wireless network, refer to the
Notebook PC User
Guide
in Help and Support.
The Windows operating system also provides tools to help you set up your wireless network
for the first time. To use the Windows tools to set up your network, select
Start
, click
Control Panel
, click
Network and Internet
, click
Network and Sharing Center
, click
Set
up a new connection or network
, and then click
Set up a new network
. Then follow the
on-screen instructions.
Step 3: Configure the computer to connect to the wireless network
1. If the wireless computer is off, turn it on.
2. If the wireless light is amber, turn on the wireless function by pressing the wireless
action key (
f12
). For help locating the wireless action key, refer to the
Notebook PC
User Guide
in Help and Support.
