Compaq Presario CQ42-400 Notebook Essentials - Windows 7 - Page 17

Chapter 3: What's next? Connecting to an existing wireless network To connect the computer to an existing wireless network, follow these steps: 1. Click the network icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar. 2. Select a network. 3. Click Connect. 4. If required, enter the security key. Setting up a wireless network This section describes the steps necessary to set up a typical home or small office wireless network, which is also called a wireless local area network (WLAN), using a wireless computer. To set up a wireless network and to connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment: ■ A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) and high-speed Internet service purchased from an Internet service provider (ISP) ■ A wireless router (purchased separately) ■ Your new wireless computer The illustration shows an example of a completed wireless network installation that is connected to the Internet and to a wired computer. As this network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to access the Internet. Notebook Essentials 11