Using operating system controls, Using a wlan device, Setting up a wlan – HP ProBook 5220m Notebook PC User Manual
Page 28

– or –
Select Start > All Programs > HP > HP Connection Manager.
For more details about using HP Connection Manager, refer to the HP Connection Manager software
Help.
Using operating system controls
Some operating systems also offer a way to manage integrated wireless devices and the wireless
connection. For example, Windows provides the Network and Sharing Center that allows you to set up
a connection or network, connect to a network, manage wireless networks, and diagnose and repair
network problems.
To access the Network and Sharing Center, click Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet >
Network and Sharing Center.
For more information, refer to Windows Help and Support. Click Start > Help and Support.
Using a WLAN device
With a WLAN device, you can access a wireless local area network (WLAN), which is composed of other
computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point.
NOTE:
The terms wireless router and wireless access point are often used interchangeably.
●
A large-scale WLAN, such as a corporate or public WLAN, typically uses wireless access points
that can accommodate a large number of computers and accessories and can separate critical
network functions.
●
A home or small office WLAN typically uses a wireless router, which allows several wireless and
wired computers to share an Internet connection, a printer, and files without requiring additional
pieces of hardware or software.
NOTE:
To use the WLAN device in your computer, you must connect to a WLAN infrastructure
(provided through a service provider or a public or corporate network).
Setting up a WLAN
To set up a WLAN and connect to the Internet, you need the following equipment:
●
A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from an
Internet service provider (ISP)
●
A wireless router (purchased separately) (2)
●
The wireless computer (3)
The illustration below shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the
Internet.
16
Chapter 2 Wireless, local area network, and modem