How to Set up a Wireless Network in Windows XP

Set up your new router

Note that if buying a router, all routers are compatible with Windows XP. It is wireless adapters that have varying levels of Windows XP compatibility. If your router isn't new, then turn it on and skip to "Detecting your wireless adapter" (below).

Plug your router into your internet socket if you want to share your internet.

Plug your router into your PC with an Ethernet cable.

Go to your browser and type in the address "http://192.168.0.1 or 192.168.0.1" or whichever address the router's web server is listening.

Enter your username and password from your router (often "admin" and "admin") then your internet service provider.

Enable wireless and set your encryption (WEP or WPA) and type a memorable passkey.

Detecting your wireless adapter

Your wireless adapter should be detected automatically by Windows XP.

Check Device Manager.

Connecting to a network

If your connection appears in the Wireless Connection Manager then connect to it, otherwise run the wizard.

Run the Wireless Network Setup Wizard.

Give it an SSID name if you want.

Choose your "Encryption" (WEP or WPA) and enter your passkey.

Adjust any properties.

Connect.