Dell Precision M2300 (Late 2007) - Manual (Page 43)

Wireless Local Area Network
A wireless local area network (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:
l High-speed (broadband) Internet access (such as cable or DSL)
l A broadband modem that is connected and working
l A wireless router or access point
l A wireless network card for each computer that you want to connect to your WLAN
l A network cable with a network (RJ-45) connector
Checking Your Wireless Network Card
Depending on what you selected when you purchased your computer, the computer has a variety of configurations. To confirm that your computer has a
wireless network card and to determine the type of card, use one of the following:
l The Start button and the Connect To option
l The order confirmation for your computer
Start Button and Connect To Option
In Microsoft Windows XP, click Start® Connect To® Show all connections.
In Microsoft Windows Vista, click Start® Connect To® View network computers and devices.
If Wireless Network Connection does not appear under LAN or High-Speed Internet, you may not have a wireless network card.
If Wireless Network Connection appears, you have a wireless network card. To view detailed information about the wireless network card:
1. Right-click Wireless Network Connection.
2. Click Properties.
The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears. The wireless network card's name and model number are listed on the General tab.
The Order Confirmation for Your Computer
The order confirmation that you received when you ordered your computer lists the hardware and software that shipped with your computer.
Setting Up a New WLAN Using a Wireless Router and a Broadband Modem
1. Contact your Internet service provider (ISP) to obtain specific information about the connection requirements for your broadband modem.
2. Ensure that you have wired Internet access through your broadband modem before you attempt to set up a wireless Internet connection (see
Connecting a Network or Broadband Modem Cable ).
3. Install any software required for your wireless router. Your wireless router may have been shipped with an installation media. Installation media usually
contain installation and troubleshooting information. Install the required software according to the instructions provided by the router manufacturer.
4. Shut down your computer and any other wireless-enabled computers in the vicinity through the Start or menu.
5. Disconnect your broadband modem power cable from the electrical outlet.
NOTE: If your computer is set to the Classic Start menu option, you can view network connections by clicking the Start® Settings® Network
Connections. If Wireless Network Connection does not appear, you may not have a wireless network card.