Connecting to a Public Wireless Network

The world is bristling with wireless networks, some of which are free with open access, and others that require a passphrase or a security key for access. Windows Vista recognizes the wireless networks that are within range and makes it easy for you to connect to them.

Connect to an Open-Access Network

Click the Start button, and choose Connect To from the menu to start the Connect To A Network Wizard. If there are numerous network connections, choose Wireless from the Show list.

Click the network you want.

Click Connect.

When you're warned that the network is unsecured, click Connect Anyway, and then complete the wizard.

Use the network. When you've finished your work, choose Connect To from the Start menu, select the network, and click Disconnect.

See Also

"Connecting Without a Network" on pages 226227 for information about creating an ad hoc (improvised) wireless network between two computers.

Connect to a Secure Network

Click the Start button, and choose Connect To from the Start menu to start the Connect To A Network Wizard.

Click the network you want, and then click Connect.

Type the security key or the passphrase that was assigned to you, or insert the USB portable device that contains the network settings.

Click Connect.

Specify whether you want to save the network connection and whether you want it to start automatically whenever you start Windows.

Click Close, and use the network.

Caution

Any files that are stored in shared folders can be accessed by other users of the network. Make sure that you require a password for access to your computer so that your files are available only to users with full authentication.

Tip

Windows Vista sets up all wireless connections as connections to public networks. This setting restricts some sharing access to your computer for your protection and also prevents any sharing of your media files.