Windows 7 Foundation

Windows 7 Networking

Microsoft continues to improve the ease of use of networking and has improved file sharing and network access in Windows 7. In Windows 7, you can connect to a wired or wireless network, with all kinds of security options. Windows 7 introduces the HomeGroup feature to allow you to quickly share files among computers on your home network, while helping to keep out intruders from accessing your network. You can also easily share printers or other resources from one computer to another.

Connecting to Your Network

If you have a wired network, connecting to it is usually as easy as just plugging in a cable. A HomeGroup allows you to connect other computers on your network to share files, music, and printers. You can create a HomeGroup by:

1. Click the Start menu and select Control Panel.
2. Click on Choose homegroup and sharing options under Network and Internet.
3. Click on Create a HomeGroup. You can detemine what types of file and content you would like to share.
4. Click Next to create the HomeGroup. You will receive a password for other users to join your HomeGroup.

Note: HomeGroups are only available on Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP users will not be able to join.

Setting Up a Wireless Network

Connecting to a wireless network in Windows 7 is a world’s difference from previous versions of Windows. In Windows XP, it was very painful to connect to a wireless network with any kind of security on it. In Windows 7, the process is much easier.

1. In the notification area, you should have a wireless icon  if you have a wireless adapter and are not connected.
   
2. Click on the icon to see the wireless networks available.
3. Select the network you would like to connect to. If it requires a password, Windows will prompt you. Otherwise, Windows will attempt to connect. Once you’re connected to the wireless network, your icon will change to .

In this section of the Windows 7 tutorial, you learned how to connect to networks.

Windows 7 Tutorial Summary

Thank you for learning Windows 7 with Learnthat.com! This free Windows 7 tutorial has explored the new interface and features in Windows 7. Additionally, we learned how to customize Windows 7, work with files and folders in Windows 7, manage user accounts, install and remove software applications, setup wireless networking, keep your kids safe while using Windows 7, create and manager user accounts, and key tips to help you become a Windows 7 power user!