I can't connect to Wireless Internet?

Question

I have a wireless router, and a modem connected to it, i access the internet via a Ethernet cable connected to the wireless router. However when I try to connect to the router using a wireless usb key, it doesn't work. What happens is that I receive (local only) connection. I tried using a Sony PSP and it connects without a problem. Anyone know what I have to do?

PS: I am using Windows Vista.

Answer 1

To troubleshoot, turn off the the security on the router (write down the current phase and the key setting so you can put it back later) so that you would not need a wireless key to connect.  Now try to wireless connect and see if you can connect to the internet.

If it doesn't connect jump to last paragraph:

If it connects, then you did not have the correct password in the first place.  Disconnect from this wireless network, connect this computer to the router using the network cable, turn the security back on with the previous phase and all the setting that you wrote down.  This will generate the key, copy and paste the key to a text file using notepad program, save the router settings. Now unplug the network cable and try to connect wirelessly and paste in the key when prompted.  Now try to connect to the internet.

If it doesn't connect,  check the network setting for the wireless network card and under tcpip setting is the same as the other network card setting then try to connect again.

Answer 2

which wireless router do you own? depending which type of encryption you use you have WPA, WEP those are the most common for home wireless routers, WEP has 64bit 10 hex digits or 128 bits 26 hex digits each. the hex numbers is the key you have to enter into windows vista wireless manager or other software that manages your wireless card. also check to see if you are using DHCP Server on your router, which means your router issues your computers IP address, check your wireless card properties make sure your using DHCP as well. most inportantly make sure you wireless key is CORRECT windows wont tell you if it is not you will just have the problem you are having now local connection only. to check your wireless key you have to find the routers gateway which if its DEFAULT might be 192.168.1.1 and the password will be admin no username on most routers.

hope this helps..