Dell Latitude D530 User's Guide - Page 80

Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft® Windows® XP Operating System 1 Click Start→ All Programs→ Accessories→ Communications→ Network Setup Wizard→ Next→ Checklist for creating a network. NOTE: Selecting the connection method labeled This computer connects directly to the Internet enables the integrated firewall provided with Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2). 2 Complete the checklist. 3 Return to the Network Setup Wizard and follow the instructions in the wizard. Setting Up a Network in the Microsoft Windows Vista® Operating System 1 Click the Windows Vista Start button , and then click Connect To→ Set up a connection or network. 2 Select an option under Choose a connection option. 3 Click Next, and then follow the instructions in the wizard. Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) A WLAN is a series of interconnected computers that communicate with each other over the air waves rather than through a network cable connected to each computer. In a WLAN, a radio communications device called an access point or wireless router connects network computers and provides Internet, or network, access. The access point or wireless router and the wireless network card in the computer communicate by broadcasting data from their antennas over the air waves. What You Need to Establish a WLAN Connection Before you can set up a WLAN, you need: • High-speed (broadband) Internet access (such as cable or DSL) • A broadband modem that is connected and working • A wireless router or access point 80 Setting Up and Using Networks