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Windows XP
Connection Instructions
General Information – Please Read
These instructions are intended to be a general guide to connecting most computers running Windows XP to connect to the wireless network using features that are built-in to the operating systems. Older operating systems, such as Windows2000, WindowsME and Windows98 will require a much different procedure.
Driver information: It is recommended that you use the most recent drivers and software provided by the manufacturer of your computer or wireless card manufacturer instead of the generic Windows drivers. Specific instructions vary by manufacturer; therefore we are only able to provide generic instructions for use with Windows XP’s built in wireless support. Wherever possible, use vendor-specific drivers and software instead of Windows the defaults described here.
SECURITY DISCLAIMER: Please be aware that wireless networks, by nature, are insecure. This pilot project is temporarily being run without encryption. It is not recommended that you send unencrypted passwords (such as through Eudora/Outlook or Telnet) or other secure information (such as credit cards) over a wireless network. Anyone attempting to monitor the content of another person’s wireless network communication is in violation of the Code of Ethics for Information at Colby College and subject to disciplinary action.
Additional Questions: Your input is needed! Because the wireless network is still in initial phase, we are asking that users with problems, questions or general comments submit information via a form, available in the Library and online at http://www.colby.edu/info.tech/wireless/wirelessreport.html
Also check the Colby ITS website for up-to-date information at http://www.colby.edu/info.tech/wireless
System Requirements: Portable/laptop computer equipped with Windows XP (other operating systems are supported, but will require additional steps and software)
- A wireless card compatible with 802.11a, 802.11b OR 802.11g protocol.
Windows Connection Instructions
If you see a pop-up message saying “Wireless Networks are Available” proceed to step 5.
1. Select the “Start” button, select “Settings” and then select the Control Panel.
2. Select “Network Connections”
3. Under “LAN or High-Speed Internet” look to see if a Wireless Connection is present. If you do not see one listed, your Wireless hardware may not be set up properly. Check your manufacturer’s documentation, reinstall the hardware, or call the helpdesk for additional assistance.
4. Make sure the Wireless Connection is enabled – if it says “Disabled,” right-click the Wireless Connection icon and select “enable.”
5. Right-click the Wireless Connection icon (either the icon in “Network Connections” or the small icon in the taskbar, at bottom-right) and select “View Available Wireless Networks” as shown below:
6. You should see "Colby Wireless" listed as an available network. Select "Colby Wireless" and click on “Connect” (no key is needed).
7. If a warning comes up saying the network is not secure because WEP is not enabled, check the box saying “Allow me to connect” and click on “Connect” again.
8. You should now be connected – a popup message saying “Now Connected to Colby Wireless.” To test the connection, open an Internet Browser Window and try loading a web page. If you do not have a connection, try starting from step #1.
· If you still have problems or questions, please submit them via online form at http://www.colby.edu/info.tech/wireless/wirelessreport.html also available in hard copy in Miller Library.
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