Scanning for wireless networks
Wireless Internet works by broadcasting an Internet signal over the air that can be picked up by a computer's wireless card and can therefore connect you to the Internet without having to physically plug anything into the computer. If your computer is equipped with a functioning wireless card, the process of scanning for wireless networks is simple and painless.
Instructions
1. Configure your computer for wireless connectivity. Your computer's wireless card must be enabled in order for it to scan for wireless networks. Many computers are built with a "radio button" that allows you to turn your wireless card on and off. Turn it on if it is off. It is also a good idea to check your computer's device manager to make sure your wireless card has all the latest software drivers installed.
2. Verify you are close to a working wireless network. If you do not use your own wireless network at home, and if you do not have the computer located within the broadcast range of an active wireless network, you can search all day and night for wireless networks and you will not find any. If you use your own wireless router, determine its broadcast range (usually listed on the router's box or as part of its documentation) and if your computer is outside of its range, move either your computer closer to your router or your router closer to your computer.
3. Scan for wireless networks. Most modern computers will automatically scan for available wireless networks when the computer's wireless card is activated. In some instances, you may need to scan for networks manually. Navigate to the network connections manager on your computer and manually have it look for wireless networks. Any networks within range of your computer should now be displayed.
Tags: wireless networks, wireless card, computer wireless, your computer, your computer, your wireless
