Make Sure Your Hardware Is Recognized

Your first step is to make sure Windows XP recognizes your network adapter. This is straightforward. On the hardware side, make sure your wireless network adapter is plugged into the appropriate PCI port (for desktops), USB port (for desktops and laptops), or PC Card slot (for laptops). When plugged in and connected to your computer correctly, you generally see a glowing green light.

Now, you want to make sure Windows XP recognizes your network adapter.

1. First, click the Start menu, and right-click My Computer and choose Properties (Figure 8.1).

   Figure 8.1. Right-click the My Computer icon in the Start menu.

   

2. Click the Hardware tab. Then click the Device Manager button (Figure 8.2).

   Figure 8.2. Click the Device Manager button.

   

3. In the list of devices, click the plus symbol (+) next to the "Network adapters" line (Figure 8.3).

   Figure 8.3. Check to see if your network card is recognized.

   

Your wireless network adapter should be listed here. Don't see it? Try reinstalling the driver from the CD that comes with your network adapter.