How to Connect Laptop to Wi-Fi Router? – Overview
Tethering your laptop to the internet with cables limits you to one position. The joy of having a laptop is working conveniently from your preferred location.
To share printers and files with other computers, access the internet, and move around, your laptop needs a wireless connection. Here is how to connect the laptop to a Wi-Fi router.
How to Connect Laptop to Wi-Fi Router
Connecting Laptop to Wi-Fi Router
Follow these steps to connect your laptop to a wireless router.
Step 1
Buy a wireless router based on your needs and budget.
Step 2
Follow the instructions on your router’s manual to configure it and activate its internet connection. Here is how to connect your router to the internet.
Connecting Router to the Internet
First, ensure your router has a connection to the internet. If you have a different modem, use an Ethernet cable to connect it (modem) to your router.
Many routers come with several Ethernet ports.
Use the port labeled WAN (wide area network) or internet. Often, this port has a different color from the other ports.
If your router comes with an inbuilt modem (gateway) you will only need to ensure that it is connected to the internet source.
The connection type will depend on the internet you are using. For instance, the internet flows in your office or house through a coaxial cable.
On the other hand, your modem should be connected to a filter before plugging it into a phone jack to facilitate a DSL (digital subscriber line) connection.
After setting up your wireless router, the wired connection will not be necessary. Still, you may want to leave it connected for the sake of your personal computer.
Step 3
Collect data from the configuration process. Setting up the wireless client requires you to understand the WEP (wireless encryption protocol) key, SSID (service set identifier), and the channel mode.
Step 4
Switch your laptop on and insert the Wi-Fi card. Skip this step if your laptop comes with an inbuilt Wi-Fi card.
Step 5
Install the necessary drivers you need to use the Wi-Fi card. Inject the disk that was included in the Wi-Fi card.
Follow the installation process as displayed on the screen. Many discs often generate a new wizard that eases the installation process.
Step 6
Point your mouse to the Wi-Fi Connection option and double click.
Step 7
Click Properties
Step 8
Choose the Wireless Networks tab.
Step 9
Check whether your Wi-Fi network appears in the Available Networks category. If it is missing, click add available at the bottom part of the dialog.
Step 10
Once your network’s SSID appears in the Available Networks, click the configure option.
Step 11
Enter the network’s WEP and SSID.
Step 12
Click Start; select “Connect To” then choose Wireless Network Connection. Your laptop will access the Wi-Fi network and connect to the internet.
How to Connect Laptop to Wi-Fi Router
Troubleshooting Common Wireless Connection Problems
Various issues can prevent your network from working efficiently. Often, you can solve the problem by ensuring the router or modem is plugged incorrectly.
Restarting the laptop can also solve the problem. Here is a guide to help you figure out why you have trouble connecting to the Wi-Fi and how to solve them without paying a professional.
Identify the Network Problem First
Apart from the issues we mentioned above, check for the following:
- Is your laptop connected to the right Wi-Fi network or attempting to connect to a different network?
- Try accessing the internet through a different browser.
- Did you or someone else change the Wi-Fi password?
- Can you’re laptop access a Wi-Fi connection when you move it close to the router?
Troubleshoot Your Gadget’s Connectivity Problems
Often, your laptop could be responsible for the connectivity problem. Connectivity issues vary from network adapter to software malfunctions.
Troubleshooting your laptop could help solve the problem with minimal struggle.
How to Identify Problems with Your Laptop
If your laptop suddenly stops connecting to your Wi-Fi network you may first want to restart it.
Restarting gadgets is a basic troubleshooting tactic that can solve all of your network connection problems.
Assess Your Network Adapter
Often, connection problems may arise if the network adapter in your laptop is disabled.
Troubleshoot Wireless Network Issues
Wi-Fi network problems may occur if a particular router channel is overcrowded or router settings are incompatible with your connection.
Here is how to fix your wireless network problems.
Unplug your router and give it some time to rest before plugging it back in.
Evaluate your Wi-Fi network configuration to ensure your settings are intact.
Reset your wireless network through your laptop. You can do so by clicking accessing Settings, clicking on Network & Internet, going to Status, then clicking Network Reset.
Finally
You do not need a professional to connect your laptop to a Wi-Fi router. Use this guide to configure your network and connect your laptop from the comfort of your home.