HP Mini 2102 - Manual (Page 37)

A variety of sophisticated encryption protocols is available for your WLAN. Find the solution that
works best for your network security:
◦ Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a wireless security protocol that encodes or encrypts
all network data before it is transmitted using a WEP key. Usually, you can allow the
network to assign the WEP key. Alternatively, you can set up your own key, generate a
different key, or choose other advanced options. Without the correct key, others will not be
able to use the WLAN.
◦ WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access), like WEP, uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt
data that is transmitted over the network. However, instead of using one static security key
for encryptions as WEP does, WPA uses “temporal key integrity protocol” (TKIP) to
dynamically generate a new key for every packet. It also generates different sets of keys for
each device on the network.
Connecting to a WLAN
To connect to the WLAN, follow these steps:
1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on. If it is on, the wireless light is white. If the wireless light is
off, press the
f12 action key to turn on the wireless connection.
2. Click the network icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
3. Select your WLAN from the list, and then type the network security key, if required.
● If the network is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a network security
key, which is a security code. Type the code, and then click Connect to complete the
connection.
● If the network is unsecured, meaning that anyone can access the network, the system
connects.
NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, you are out of range of a wireless router or access point.
NOTE: If you do not see the network you want to connect to, click Show all connections. A
list of options is displayed that includes creating a new network connection, as well as
troubleshooting connection issues.
After the connection is made, place the mouse pointer over the network icon in the notification area,
at the far right of the taskbar, to verify the name and status of the connection.
NOTE: The functional range (how far your wireless signals travel) depends on WLAN
implementation, router manufacturer, and interference from other electronic devices or structural
barriers such as walls and floors.
More information about using a WLAN is available from your ISP and the manufacturer's instructions
included with your wireless router and other WLAN equipment.
For a list of public WLANs near you, contact your ISP or search the Web. Web sites that list public
WLANs include Cisco Internet Mobile Office Wireless Locations, Hotspotlist, and Geektools. Check
with each public WLAN location for cost and connection requirements.
For additional information on connecting your computer to a corporate WLAN, contact your network
administrator or IT department.
Connecting to a wireless network 29