Netgear Router Problems

[DarrenH]

Hi folks

Another one for the techies.

Last week I bought a netgear router so I could get access to the internet wirelessly from my laptop.

I've managed to get an internet connection through the routing so it's basically acting as a modem for my pc. however, I can't see where on my laptop to configure t for wireless access.

I came already wireless enabled so there shouldn't be a problem.

Whe I go through the network set up, it doesn't seem to be asking me relevant questions, for example, nowhere does it ask me to enter an SSID name, region or Channel.

Where should I be looking on my laptop to configure correctly.

I'm running windows XP home on both systems.

many thanks
Darren

[Whistle Ink]

don't you need a notebok network card?

something like one of these????

http://www.netgear.co.uk/wireless_laptop_networkcard_wg511.php

I have a belkin card and router. The card usually comes with a cd and you need to install the card and then you are one step closer!!! :D

[DarrenH]

Both my pc and my laptop came with network cards installed.

Darren

[darren atkinson]

Hi Darren (nice name)

On your router you need to make sure you have turned on the wireless access point, to do this go to the setup mode (192.168.0.1 in IE) and look through the settings to find the relevant wireless options. Check its on, and check the security settings.

On your laptop there should be a program in your 'all programs' list off the start menu associated with your wireless network card. Run this program and get it to 'scan' for wireless networks. It should automatically pick up the wireless network, you should then be able to select it and click on connect.

Alternativley you can use the Windows XP wireless network options to connect, I would put Service Pack 2 on first, do you have it?

Darren

[annethedonn]

Hi Darren

I have a netgear router - apart from the help Darren is offering (which is sound!) if you ring Netgear Support they will also talk you through the set up foc... your ISP should also be able to do this.


Anne

[Stationery-Direct]

"if you ring Netgear Support they will also talk you through the set up foc."

If you dont mind speaking to somebody in India who doesn't understand English very well!!

[annethedonn]

there are a few English people, I got through to a couple last week, but I know what you mean!

[Stationery-Direct]

Actually you are better phoning their sales number 01344 397021 and actually asking them to put you through to UK Technical Support, specifically ask for this, ensure they understand as they are also a bit thick, think that is 9 - 5 though.

[KM-Tiger]

You might do well to visit this forum:-

http://bbs.adslguide.org.uk/postlist.php?Cat=&Board=multiuser

and do a search on "Netgear".

There are a lot of questions and answers there.

[darren atkinson]

All good netgear advice, but it sounds to me like its more of a problem on your laptop then the router.

I personally wouldn't waste my time with support calls until I had made sure the laptop is functioning correctly. You definitely need to get to the point on your laptop where you are at least scanning for a wireless network.

Darren

[DarrenH]

Hi

Thanks for all the responses thus far.

I'm now wondering if my laptop is wireless enabled, even though I was assured it is.

When I go to network connections, there's no option regarding Wireless connectivity.

If I look at the installed hardware, what should I be looking for?

or is there any other method of findout?

If all else fails, I've got a computer techie coming tomorrow, but I'd sooner not have to pay to get this sorted if I can help it.

Cheers
Darren

[Whistle Ink]

I'm pretty sure that your laptop simple has the capacity to do wireless things and still think you need to use something like the card I showed you in the earlier post. This card talks to the router and transfer and receives data to and from router / card. :D

[gary]

If you're not sure whether your laptop is wireless enabled, why not do a search for the model on Google and check the specs? If it says it is wireless enabled, then it is built in and all you need to do is press the wireless button on the laptop to use it (many new laptops have this). If it's not, then you will need a wireless card so that you can connect to your Netgear router.