Connect your laptop to a wireless network using Windows XP

Here's what you need to know (and do) to connect your laptop to a wireless network and get Internet access. That said, the next thing you need is to have a laptop with wireless networking capabilities. Click on Start | Settings | (Control Panel) | Network Connections
Under "LAN or High-Speed Internet" you should see a wireless connection icon. (If not, see below about installing a wireless network card). Right-click on the wireless connection icon.
In the pop-up menu, select "View Available Wireless Networks." In the "Wireless Networking Connection" window, click on the appropriate wireless network. Check the box that says "Allow me to connect to the selected wireless network."
Note: If your laptop does not already have built-in wireless networking, you will need to purchase and install, or have installed, a Wireless Networking Card. There are many brands of wireless networking cards. If you choose another brand, be certain that the card is WiFi Certified. (For a list of 802.11b and 802.11g certified cards, please visit the WiFi Alliance website.)