Help: How do I connect to wireless internet???

Question

Explain this to me like I'm an idiot, because I'm not that computer savvy.

I just moved into a basement apartment, the people upstairs let me use their internet connection, they told me its wireless, and I'll be able to connect no problem, that it's not secure.

I don't know how to connect tho - I tried loading my browser and start using the net, and couldn't connect. Not sure what to do in my network connections panel either.

Can someone please walk me through what I need to know to start using the net?

Thanks for your help in advance!

Answer 1

Go to Start>Settings>Control Panel>Network Connections

Double Click Wireless Network Connection

Click on View Wireless Networks

At this point a window pops up with any detected wireless connections and whether or not they are secured. (look for the ones with the antenna icon)

Ask your neighbor what the name of the connection is.  If they didn't change the name its probably "linksys"

Answer 2

Before you can connect to any available wireless networks you have to allow the computer to search for the router connection before the internet connection. Select control panel and then wireless configuration utility (or wireless connections on some older computers). A window will open showing you a list of wireless networks that are available. If you know the name of the router upstairs (the username that was assigned to it), and your computer is equipped with a compatible wireless card, you should see it in the list. If the network is not secured, then you can click on the network and connect without entering a security password.

Answer 3

Nice neighbors that you have, lol. Find out what type of wireless router they are using (D-Link, etc.) and get an adaptor card which is the same make as their router. Make sure that it's minimally wireless "G" or "N" rated. You'll have to install the card, which means opening the computer case (usually 4 or 6 screws on the back) and plug the new card in - the installation instructions are usually very explicit. Put the case back together and install the small antenna which came with the wireless card - this is what actually receives the signal for internet access. Follow the installation instructions regarding setting up the card, if you get stuck, all major manufacturers have a "help" line to assist you with the installation.