Can't get my wireless to work

[Rahminator]

I've bought a D-Link DI-514 Wireless router (802.11b) so that I can use my laptop anywhere in my house. It's a Compaq nx7000 w/ centrino. I know nothing about networking so I was counting on plug n play to just make it work, but it doesn't. I press the wireless button on the laptop but nothing happens. I've got this computer from my school and wireless works there. I just press the button and there it is. I've no clue where to start. Help is appreciated. Thanks.

 

[RagingBITCH]

You do have to configure it. You need to setup a wireless SSID and have the corresponding settings on your laptop. Your router should have come with instructions so you might want to read that first

 

[Rahminator]

I'm using default router settings. SSID is "default" and channel is 6. I've no clue how to change the settings on the laptop tho.

 

[phonemonkey]

Do you let windows manage your wireless connection, or do you have other software installed to manage your connections?

Before you go any further, though, I'd strong suggest reconfiguring your wireless settings on the router level. Here's a list of things you can do to help secure your network (unless you like sharing your computers and connection with strangers):

- enable 128bit WEP or WAP (go with WAP if you can)
- change your SSID to something unique (and change it every month or so)
- disable broadcasting your SSID (makes it more difficult for the average person to find you)
- enable MAC filtering to only allow your laptop, pda, etc access your wireless network

 

[Rahminator]

Originally posted by: jester79
Do you let windows manage your wireless connection, or do you have other software installed to manage your connections?

Before you go any further, though, I'd strong suggest reconfiguring your wireless settings on the router level. Here's a list of things you can do to help secure your network (unless you like sharing your computers and connection with strangers):

- enable 128bit WEP or WAP (go with WAP if you can)
- change your SSID to something unique (and change it every month or so)
- disable broadcasting your SSID (makes it more difficult for the average person to find you)
- enable MAC filtering to only allow your laptop, pda, etc access your wireless network

I have Intel Proset installed, if that helps any. I see no point in doing any changes in router settings until I get it to work.

 

[Rahminator]

I read some Intel proset help docs and it said I have to disable Win XP Zero configuration service. Rebooted, bam, it works. Thanks for your help n time tho. Take care guys.