Wireless Networking
There are many improvements in Windows Vista with Wireless networking. For instance, the dialog and configuration of the Wireless Network settings make it easier for users to setup and administer their wireless connections. Microsoft has also added support for non-broadcasting wireless networks, enabling users the ability to make these types of wireless networks the default connection.
Of course, to connect to a wireless network the laptop or desktop must have integrated wireless or a wireless network adapter card. If you experience problems viewing networks, ensure that the wireless card has installed properly and that the drivers are up to date.
The majority of users connect to a wireless connection by using the Connect to a Network dialog box. This dialog can be accessed from the Start Menu and Connect To option.
1. Open the Start Menu.
2. Select Connect To.
3. The screen prompts users to Select a Network to Connect to.
4. Select the desired Wireless Network and click Connect.
Under Show, the following options are available.
• All Wireless, dial-up, and VPN connections.
• Wireless Only wireless connections.
• Dial-up and VPN Only dial-up and VPN connections.
Vista also allows for Manual connection to a Network. To access this feature, click Connect To under the Start Menu.
1. Choose Set up a connection or network link at the bottom.
2. Choose the type of connection, for a new wireless network choose Setup up a wireless router or access point. Click Next.
3. Click Next again and the computer detects the hardware necessary.
4. Once the hardware has been detected the user is prompted for the following:
a. Network Name
b. Security Type (drop down menu)
c. Encryption Type
d. Security Key/Passphrase
e. And Save this network for me only.
Users can also set the new connection to start a connection automatically and to connect even if the network is not broadcasting. The last feature is for the non-broadcasting or hidden wireless networks that increase security and protects your bandwidth.
The Wireless options include creating wireless profiles, so as to eliminate difficulty choosing connections. So if the user has the computer on a café’s wireless and then takes the laptop home, the wireless connection recognizes this fact and automatically selects the appropriate profiled connection for the user.
