The Wireless Windows Zero Configuration Future makes Wi-Fi Installation so Simple

Windows XP ™ also will automatically detect any open or available Wi-Fi networks in the area, provide a list and allow you to connect.

Install the Wi-Fi cards, power up again and watch while the system configures itself. Some of the earlier versions of windows had some issues.

Win 95 was created before networking. Today networking is more prevalent in homes and offices, but here are some problems.

If your still using win 95, and win 98, and I hope not, maybe it's time to upgrade to windows XP, just remember to install service pack 2 if it's an older system. Windows ME, just forget about networking, stability is a big issue with Win ME Millennium Edition the same with Win 95, 98. As far as wireless windows and WI-FI are concerned.

Check this out if your not sure if you have service pack 2
installed by going to Internet explorer
 

• Click on help
• Select about internet explorer
• Click on the system information
• Look for the version service pack 2 build

Windows XP Were Specifically Designed To Be
Compatible With Wi-Fi 

Make sure the equipment you choose is compatible with your operating system. Wireless Windows 2000 and Windows XP can automatically detect and help configure your Wi-Fi equipment because many of the important drivers are already built in.

But it's best to use the drivers that came with the pc card or device, because more then likely they are the newest drivers available.

Equipment manufacturers supply these drivers along with detailed instructions on how to install the equipment for each operating system. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully to assure a successful connection. You normally should install the drivers first, so windows doesn't find the new card and install it.

Reasons To Upgrade Computer To Windows XP 

Less Downtime This is absolutely true. Windows XP home and XP pro stay up longer and resist crashing far better then
windows 9x/ME and even windows 2000. This is from personnel experience and most experts seem to agree

Recovery Tools And System Restore You can roll back your operating system to the state it was before you made the changes

Improved Security And Networking Microsoft includes an internet connection firewall as well as better default security configuration settings

Wi-Fi Wireless Windows Networking Support Microsoft calls it 802.1x, but that's primarily Wi-Fi and windows XP includes support for Wi-Fi automatically,it works very well on my system

Updated Peripheral Support Universal serial bus (USB) 2.0 specifications made it into windows XP, and better support for firewire makes you windows PC almost as friendly as a Macintosh close, but no cigar

Encrypting File System Particularly critical for laptop owners keeps your files safe in case your laptop falls into the lap of someone
that's not you Bottom Line: Upgrade your computer hardware and software to get the best possible computing experience. 

Wireless Windows Configuring Windows XP PCs

These instructions assume you are running Windows XP with the default interface. Click the Start button and then the Control Panel icon.
Click the Network and Internet Connections icon.Then click the Network and internet Connections icon.

Select the Network Connection icon for the applicable Ethernet adapter - it is the first Local Area Connection listed. Double-click
the Local Area Connection. Click the Properties button.Make sure the box next to Internet Protocol - TCP/IP - is checked. Highlight
Internet Protocol - TCP/IP and click the Properties button.

Select Obtain an IP address automatically. Once the new window appears, click the OK button. Click the OK button again to complete
the PC configuration.

Be sure to read the documentation that comes with your Wi-Fi equipment. Any drivers or software provided by the manufacturer should be on hand.

When your Wi-Fi card is connected to your computer, an icon will appear

in the system tray (Under "Start", "My Network Places", "View Network Connections") that looks like a computer with a small vertical antenna.

Windows XP ™ also will automatically detect any open or available Wi-Fi networks in the  area, provide a list and allow you to connect.

Before you do, ponder this: anyone who installs a Wi-Fi card within transmitting distance can now gain access to your computer and all its services, including your Internet service. That's why at this point you need to think seriously about wireless home computer security.

Wireless Security is the last thing you want to configure if you are building a network from scratch just take one step at a time because it can, and will, save you lots of aggravation later if you encounter any problems when your configuring your Wireless Windows.

You will need service pack 2 to take full advantage of the WPA and WPA2 security features for your wireless network.