Wireless Networking - installation (additional Windows XP)

Once your primary computer is set up, you can follow the steps below to connect additional wireless devices to your home network using Windows XP.

Before you begin

Please ensure you have a wireless ethernet adapter installed and functioning properly on the computer you're about to set up.

Step 1: Placement of your wireless device

Ranging up to 100 metres indoors and up to 300 metres outdoors, a wireless connection allows you to access your network from virtually anywhere. However, the number of walls, ceilings, or other objects that the wireless signal must pass through can limit signal range.

A Home Network with one Wireless Computer

During set-up, position the device you want to connect within 100 metres of the wireless router with as few obstacles as possible. Ideally, you should be able to see the LED indicators on the front for potential troubleshooting.

Use these basic guidelines:

  1. Keep the number of obstacles to a minimum. Each wall or ceiling can reduce the range of a wireless device from 1 to 30M. Even small angles can make a difference. Position your wireless devices so that the number of walls or ceilings obstructing the signal path is minimized.
  2. Building materials make a difference. Metal framing or doors can reduce effective range of the device. If possible, position wireless devices so their signal can pass through drywall or open doorways. Avoid positioning them so that their signal must pass through metallic materials. Poured concrete walls are reinforced with steel while cinderblock walls generally have little or no structural steel.
  3. Position the antennae for best reception. Play around with the antenna position to see if signal strength improves. Some wireless devices allow the user to judge the strength of the signal.
  4. Keep your wireless devices away (at least 1-2 metres) from electrical devices. Position wireless devices away from electrical devices that generate RF noise such as microwave ovens, monitors, electric motors, etc.

Step 2: Run the Install Wizard CD or configure your wireless computer

Insert the Install Wizard CD that came with your TELUS High Speed Internet Kit into the computer you wish to add to your network and follow the prompts. If you do not have the Install Wizard CD, proceed to Step 3.

Step 3: Configure your wireless computer

  1. Click the Start button on the computer you wish to connect to your network.
  2. Choose Settings and Control Panel.
  3. Double-click Performance and Maintenance and choose System. If you're using Classic view simply double-click System.
  4. Click the Computer Name tab.
  5. Enter a unique Description for your new computer.
      NOTES:
    • This name can not be assigned to any of your other computers.
    • Ensure the description is eight characters or less with no spaces.
  6. Click Change...
  7. Enter the Workgroup Name. This is the name of your home network that you previously specified in the Workgroup field on your Primary computer.
      NOTES:
    • Do not change Computer Name.
    • For Windows XP Pro only: ensure Workgroup is selected (not Domain).
    • This workgroup setting must be the same for all computers on your home network. If you change it on one computer, you must change it on all computers.
  8. Click OK.
  9. You may be prompted to restart your computer. Click OK to do so.

Step 4: Enable the wireless connection

  1. From the desktop, right-click My Network Places and choose Properties.
  2. You should see an icon for your Wireless Network Connection.
    • If you do not see an icon for a wireless connection, you will need to re-install your wireless ethernet adapter. Refer to the manufacturer's documentation.
  3. Ensure the Wireless Network Connection indicates that it is Enabled.
    • If it says Disabled, right-click the icon and select Enable.
  4. If this is a laptop computer, look for an external wireless connection switch and ensure it is in the On position.

Step 5: Configure your wireless settings

To configure the wireless ethernet adapter on your computer, you will need to run the connection manager for that specific device. For instructions on how to do so, please refer to the manufacturer's user manual.

To locate the settings for your wireless network:

  1. From the desktop on the primary computer, open the My Documents folder.
  2. Open the file My_Network_Settings.html. You will need the SSID and WEP Key information contained in this folder to configure your wireless ethernet adapter.

Step 6: Verify the connection works

The easiest way to confirm your computer is successfully connected to your home network is to try and browse the Internet. Open a Web browser, such as Internet Explorer, and try connecting to a Web page. If you are unable to surf the Web, click here to troubleshoot your connection.

Try using PC HealthCheck to automatically repair your high speed and home networking problems.

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