Wi-Fi technology allows you to quickly and easily connect all your home devices to the network and give them access to the Internet without laying wires. To set up a connection, you only need a router, for a stationary computer - an additional Wi-Fi adapter. Let's figure out how to connect Wi-Fi on a laptop and PC.
The router or router receives the incoming signal over the cable and transmits it to wireless devices in range. For the initial setup, connect the router to the computer with a wire. Next, you need the parameters specified in the router documentation or on a sticker on its back side: IP address, administrator login and password. Open a browser and enter the IP numbers in the address bar, the router's web panel will open - log in with the administrator password.
How to connect and configure a Wi-Fi router: in the panel, write down the parameters for wireless networks specified on the website of your provider. Come up with a name for the network - by it you will select it to connect. In the security settings, create a password to secure the connection. Without a password, neighbors within the router's coverage area can use your channel. To complete the configuration, restart the router by selecting the Reboot function in the panel, disconnect the device from the computer.
Turn on Wi-Fi on a laptop
In modern laptops, the Wi-Fi adapter is most often built into the original configuration. If you do not know if there is one, look for the icon on the body in the form of an antenna or information in the documentation.
How to connect a laptop to any Wi-Fi: you just need to activate the wireless module. To do this, press the Fn key combination and the function key with the antenna icon. On Asus laptop, this is Fn + F2. You can also activate the connection in the Windows settings - in the subsection "Network Control Center ..." enable the wireless connection.
We put the Wi-Fi adapter on the computer
To use Wi-Fi on a computer, you need an adapter that will receive signals from the router. They are external - small, inserted into a USB port, and internal - in the form of a small card that is placed in the PCI slot of the motherboard.
Before connecting the Wi-Fi router to the computer, connect the adapter. Be sure to install the drivers on the devices - from the enclosed disk or downloaded from the manufacturer's website on the Internet. For some adapter models, a proprietary configuration utility will be installed along with the driver.
Setting up the connection
To connect wifi to a computer, it remains to establish a connection. For a Windows 7 computer, open the "Network and Sharing Center" of the "Start" menu. Go to the adapter settings and turn on the wireless connection - the Wi-Fi columnar icon will appear in the tray. Click on it and select your network by the name specified in the router. Enter the password and connect immediately.
How to connect a computer on Windows 10: in the OS settings, go to the "Network and Internet" subsection. In the paragraph, open the list of available networks, select yours and enter with a password.
Conclusion
We figured out how to connect a laptop or regular computer to Wi-Fi. Set up your router, connect the adapter to your PC and activate the connection.
Quite often, you can face the problem of using wireless networks on a stationary computer. To connect a PC to Wi-fi, you can use the following methods:
- Using an internal network card.
- Using an external network card.
- Using an additional Wi-fi router.
Connecting a Desktop Computer to a Wireless Network Using an Internal Network Card
Step 1. Remove the side panel from your system unit.
Step 2. Install the wireless network card into the appropriate slot (usually PCI or PCI-express).
Important! Network cards can have one or more antennas. The larger the number of antennas installed, the wider the Wi-fi coverage area and data transfer rate. To avoid mistakes, it is worth remembering that you can calculate the required amount as follows: each antenna increases the speed by about 70 Mb / s.
Step 3. Install drivers for the new network card.
Step 4. Set up the connection to your wireless modem. To change the parameters of the network adapter, you need to enter the "Control Panel" and change the view mode to "Small icons".
Step 5. Access to changes in properties and settings of the network card is available via the link "Network Control Center ...".
Step 6. In the directory that opens, use the link in the left frame "Changing adapter parameters".
Step 7. Changing the settings of a network adapter occurs through its properties. Call the context menu and use the required item.
Click on "Properties"
Step 8. The settings you need are stored in the "Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP / IPv4)" subdirectory. You can open it by double-clicking, or by highlighting this item and clicking on the "Properties" button.
Step 9. Specify the settings of your wireless connection and save them via the "OK" button.
Important! Make sure that no two are alike on the same networkIP addresses, otherwise there will be a conflict of data separation, and, in fact, only the device that received this address before the others will work. If your wireless router is transmittingIP addresses automatically, use this option.
Connecting a desktop computer to a wireless network using an external network card
External network adapters are connected via USB ports. They are, as a rule, miniature, and represent a "flash drive". When choosing such an adapter, you should also pay attention to the number of antennas. The most commonly used cards are with built-in antennas, but their data transfer rate is not the best, in addition, the area coverage is rather small.
Step 1. Connect the external adapter to your personal computer.
Step 2. Install the drivers. They usually come with the adapter itself.
Step 3. Complete the network setup as described earlier.
Using additionalWi-Fi router
The configuration of each router is very specific, but there are some general points. Let's consider these nuances using the example of a TP-Link router.
Quite often in a computer environment, the meanings of the words "switch", "hub", "router", switch are confused. Let's give a brief explanation of the switching levels and their corresponding devices (switching levels are determined by the OSI network model):
- Hub (first level) - repeater. Equipment that makes it possible to physically parallelize streams. Has no routing tables, does not distinguish between the addresses of computers and other network devices. Due to the impossibility of distributing information to addressees, the load on the network increases, the speed of the network connection decreases.
- Switch (second level) - a device that can work with information packets that pass through it. In these packets, the device separates the source and destination addresses, with the “Media Access Control” (MAC) address, not the IP address. During operation, it creates a table of addresses associated with specific ports, which significantly reduces the load on the network. Uncontrollable.
- Router (third level) - as the name implies, is a router, that is, a device that provides certain routes. The peculiarity lies in switching networks with different IP. The most successful solution when working in a network, due to the high speed of traffic processing. With pre-laid routes, it can be a kind of "border screen". Supports work with both IP and MAC addresses.
- L4-router (fourth level) - advanced router. As a rule, they have the ability to make pseudo-intelligent decisions about changing the direction of traffic. They can work with applications, and combine with other L4-routers. When combined, they work as one device, with common electronic "brains".
Step 1. To connect the computer to the router, use a patch cord (patch cord). Usually one such cord is supplied with the router, but you can make it yourself (see how you can do it).
On a note! Separately, it should be noted that the router has two typesEthernet ports -LAN (local area network) andWAN (Wide Area Network). The global port is used to connect to the Internet, the local port is used for the internal network of a home or business. In our case, you need to connect the computer inLAN, and asWAN we will useWi-fi.
Step 2. To change the settings of the router, you need to log into the device's Web interface. You can find the default address, as well as the login and password on the router itself.
Step 3. Configure the address of your network card. It must be different from the IP of the router, for example, for our case, you can use the range from 192.168.1.2 to 192.168.1.254. Follow the instructions above to make changes. Remember to change the Wired LAN settings.
Step 4. Open your browser and enter the IP address of your router. The "http: //" prefix is \u200b\u200badded automatically, and you do not need to register it manually.
Step 5. Enter the credentials provided by the manufacturer. Typically, when you first log into the device, you will be asked to change them.
Step 6. In the right frame of the Web interface, expand the Network list. Inside the list, you can configure the settings for connecting to the Internet. Since the configured router will be used as a Wi-fi adapter, you should select the "Dynamic IP" or "Static IP" option. Remember to save your changes.
Important! It is preferable to enterThe IP address is manual, as the dynamic address may change and it will be difficult for you to connect to the router to change any settings.
On a note! Some models of routers have several save buttons - "Apply" and "Save settings". When using the first button, without using the second, the changes are applied only for one session (not yet closedThe router's web interface), when reconnecting, the settings will be reset to the previous ones.
Step 7. In the same list enter the “MAC Clone” menu and specify the preferred Media Access Control address. Optionally, you can leave the factory one, or "Clone" the address of your personal computer.
Step 8. Expand the Wireless list and enter the Settings menu. Enter the name of the wireless network (SSID) to which you want to connect. The indication of the region is not important, you can set any. Other settings can be ignored, with the exception of the "Enable SSID Broadcast" option - this option allows you to distribute Wi-fi, and connect other routers and other network devices.
Step 9. Go to the “Wireless Security” setup menu. Specify the type of encryption of your access point, and the key for connecting to the wireless network. Remember to save any changes you made.
Step 10. Using the “System Tools” list, enter the “Reboot” menu, and using the corresponding button, restart the router.
Video - How to set up Wi-Fi for Windows 7
Video - How to enable Wi-Fi in Windows 10
Conclusion
We examined the nuances of connecting a stationary personal computer to a wireless network. Any of the above methods requires the purchase of new equipment, while its choice is due not only to the monetary factor, but also to the additional capabilities of each of the devices, which are shown in the table.
| Information / Wednesday | Internal | Outer | Router |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stability of work | Yes | No | Yes |
| Ability to connect multiple computers at the same time | No | No | Yes |
| Maximum number of antennas | 3 | 2 | 8 |
| PC components price | Average | Average | High |
| The ability to move the antenna a significant distance from the PC | No | When using a USB extension cable (up to 5 meters) | When using a patch cord (up to 100 meters) |
Good day.
In order to organize a wireless Wi-Fi network at home and give access to the Internet to all mobile devices (laptops, tablets, phones, etc.), you need a router (even many novice users are already aware of this). True, not everyone decides to independently connect it and configure ...
In fact, the majority can do it (I do not take into account the exceptional cases when an Internet provider creates such "jungle" with its own parameters for accessing the Internet ...). In this article I will try to answer all the most frequent questions that I heard (and still hear) when connecting and configuring a Wi-Fi router. So let's get started ...
1) What kind of router do I need, how to choose it?
Perhaps this is the first question that users who want to organize a wireless Wi-Fi network at home ask themselves. I would start this question with a simple and important point: what services does your Internet provider provide (IP telephony or Internet TV), what Internet speed do you expect (5-10-50 Mbps?), And for what protocol you are connected to the Internet (for example, now popular: PPTP, PPPoE, L2PT).
Those. the functions of the router will begin to draw by themselves ... In general, this topic is quite extensive, therefore, I recommend that you familiarize yourself with one of my articles:
search and selection of a router for home -
2) How to connect the router to the computer?
As a rule, a power supply unit and a network cable for connecting to a PC are included with the router itself (see Fig. 1).
By the way, please note that on the back of the router there are several jacks for connecting a network cable: one WAN port and 4 LAN ( the number of ports depends on the router model. In the most common home routers, the configuration is as in Fig. 2).
Figure: 2. Typical rear view of the router (TP Link).
An Internet cable from the provider (which was most likely connected to the PC's network card earlier) must be connected to the blue port of the router (WAN).
With the cable that comes with the router, you need to connect the computer's network card (where the provider's Internet cable was previously connected) to one of the LAN ports of the router (see Fig. 2 - yellow ports). By the way, in this way you can connect several more computers.
At an important moment! If you do not have a computer, you can connect the port of the router with a LAN cable to a laptop (netbook). The fact is that the initial configuration of the router is better (and in some cases, otherwise impossible) to carry out via a wired connection. After specifying all the basic parameters (set up a wireless Wi-Fi connection), the network cable can be disconnected from the laptop and then work via Wi-Fi.
As a rule, there are no questions about connecting cables and power supplies. Let's assume that your device is connected, and the LEDs on it started blinking :).
3) How to enter the router settings?
This is probably the key question of the article. In most cases, this is done quite simply, but sometimes ... Let's look at the whole process in order.
By default, each router model has its own address for entering the settings (as well as login and password). In most cases, it is the same: http://192.168.1.1/ however, there are exceptions. Here are a few models:
- Asus - http://192.168.1.1 (Login: admin, Password: admin (or empty field));
- ZyXEL Keenetic - http://192.168.1.1 (Login: admin, Password: 1234);
- D-LINK - http://192.168.0.1 (Login: admin, Password: admin);
- TRENDnet - http://192.168.10.1 (Login: admin, Password: admin).
At an important moment! It is impossible to say with 100% accuracy what address, password and login your device will have (even despite the stamps I mentioned above). But in the documentation for your router, this information is necessarily indicated (most likely, on the first or last page of the user manual).
Figure: 3. Entering a login and password to access the settings of the router.
For those who did not manage to enter the router settings, there is a good article with the analyzed reasons (why this could happen). I recommend using the tips, link to the article below.
How to log in at 192.168.1.1? Why does not come, the main reasons are
How to enter the Wi-Fi router settings (step by step) -
4) How to set up an Internet connection in a Wi-Fi router
Before describing these or those settings, a small footnote should be made here:
- First, even routers from the same model range can have different firmware (different versions). The settings menu depends on the firmware, i.e. what you will see when you go to the settings address (192.168.1.1). The language of the settings also depends on the firmware. In my example below, I will show the settings of a popular router model - TP-Link TL-WR740N (the settings are in English, but it's not so difficult to figure them out. Of course, it's even easier to set up in Russian).
- The router settings will depend on the network organization of your Internet provider. To configure the router, you need information on the connection (login, password, IP addresses, type of connection, etc.), usually all that is needed is contained in the Internet connection agreement.
- For the above reasons, it is impossible to give universal instructions that are suitable for all occasions ...
Different Internet providers have a different type of connection, for example, Megaline, ID-Net, TTK, MTS, etc. use a PPPoE connection (I would call it the most popular). Plus, it provides higher speed.
When connecting PPPoE to access the Internet, you need to know the password and login. Sometimes (like in MTS) PPPoE + Static Local is used: access to the Internet will be provided, after entering the password and login for access, the local network is configured separately - you will need: IP-address, mask, gateway.
Required settings (for example PPPoE, see Fig. 4):
- You need to open the "Network / WAN" section;
- WAN Connection Type - indicate the type of connection, in this case PPPoE;
- PPPoE Connection: Username - specify the login for accessing the Internet (specified in your agreement with the Internet provider);
- PPPoE Connection: Password - password (similar);
- Secondary Connection - here we either do not specify anything (Disabled), or, for example, as in MTS, we specify Static IP (depending on the organization of your network). Usually, this setting item affects the access to the local network of your Internet provider. If you don't need it, you don't have to worry too much;
- Connect on Demand - establish an Internet connection as needed, for example, if the user has accessed an Internet browser and requests a page on the Internet. By the way, please note that there is a column below Max idle Time - this is the time after which the router (if it is idle) will be disconnected from the Internet.
- Connect Automatically - connect to the Internet automatically. In my opinion, the optimal parameter, and you need to choose it ...
- Connect Manually - manually connect to the Internet (inconvenient ...). Although some users, for example, if limited traffic - it is quite possible that this type will be the most optimal, allowing them to control the traffic limit and not go into negative territory.
Figure: 4. Setting up PPPoE connection (MTS, TTK, etc.)
It is also worth paying attention to the Advanced tab - in it you can set DNS (they are sometimes necessary).
Figure: 5. Advanced tab in TP Link router
Another important point - many ISPs bind your MAC address of the network card and do not allow you to access the Internet if the MAC address has changed ( approx. each network card has its own unique MAC address).
Modern routers can easily emulate the desired MAC address. To do this, open the tab Network / MAC Clone and press the button Clone MAC Address.
Alternatively, you can tell your new MAC address to your ISP and they will unblock it.
Note. The MAC address looks like the following line: 94-0C-6D-4B-99-2F (see Figure 6).
Figure: 6. MAC address
By the way, for example in “ Billine »Connection type is not PPPoE, and L2TP... The setup itself is done in the same way, but with some caveats:
- Wan Connection Type - the type of connection must be selected L2TP;
- Username, Password - enter the data provided by your internet provider;
- Server IP-address - tp.internet.beeline.ru;
- save the settings (the router must reboot).
Figure: 7. Configuring L2TP for Billine ...
Note. Actually, after the settings entered and the router rebooted (if you did everything correctly and entered exactly the data that you need), the Internet should appear in your laptop (computer) that you connected via a network cable! If this is the case, it remains only a small matter to set up a wireless Wi-Fi network. In the next step, we will do this ...
5) How to set up a wireless Wi-Fi network in a router
Setting up a wireless Wi-Fi network, in most cases, comes down to specifying the network name and password to access it. As an example, I'll show the same router (though I'll take the Russian firmware to show both the Russian and English versions).
First, you need to open the Wireless section, see fig. 8. Next, set the following settings:
- Network name - the name that you will see when searching for and connecting to a Wi-Fi network (specify any);
- Region - you can specify "Russia". By the way, many routers don't even have such a parameter;
- Channel width, Channel - you can leave Auto and do not change anything;
- Save the settings.
Figure: 8. Configuring Wi-Fi wireless network in TP Link router.
Next, you need to open the " Wireless Security". Many people underestimate this point, but if you do not protect the network with a password, then all your neighbors can use it, thereby reducing your network speed.
- Version: you can not change and leave automatic;
- Encryption: also automatic;
- PSK password is the password to access your Wi-Fi network. I recommend that you indicate something that is difficult to find with the usual search, or by chance guessing (no 12345678!).
Figure: 9. Setting the type of encryption (security).
After saving the settings and rebooting the router, your wireless Wi-Fi network should start working. Now you can set up a connection on a laptop, phone and other devices.
6) How to connect a laptop to a wireless Wi-Fi network
As a rule, if the router is configured correctly, there should be no problems with setting up and accessing the network in Windows. And such a connection is made in a couple of minutes, no more ...
First, click on the Wi-Fi icon in the tray next to the clock. In the window with the list of found Wi-Fi networks, select your own and enter the password for connection (see Fig. 10).
Figure: 10. Choosing a Wi-Fi network for connecting a laptop.
If you entered the network password correctly, the laptop will establish a connection and you can start using the Internet. Actually, this completes the setup. For those who did not succeed, below are a few links to typical problems.
Laptop won't connect to Wi-Fi (can't find wireless networks, no connections available) -
Wi-Fi problems in Windows 10: network without internet access -
The Internet can be accessed through an Internet cable or Wi-Fi router. In the second case, the connection speed is much higher, and the amount of data transferred is not limited.
A router, aka a router, works as follows. A cable is brought into the room, which is connected to the router, and then pulled to the computer. The router processes the signal and transmits it to all devices over the air. Most routers are pre-configured at the factory. The user only needs to connect the device to a PC and use the Internet.
The device contains a routing table. It contains paths to all devices. This is how a whole network is formed. Periodically, the router sends messages to each device to see if the signal will reach it. This is how the current state of the routing table is checked and dynamic routing works. To prevent the signal from passing to someone else's device, specific addresses are set. Static routing is more difficult to control when there are many devices connected, but it is more secure.
What you need to connect the router to your computer or laptop
To connect a Wi-Fi router to a computer, you need:
- the router itself; network cable; PC, laptop with a network card.
Modern devices are equipped with 4 LAN connector... That is, you can connect 4 computers to one device or form a local network. The cable usually comes with the router, and the card is integrated into the motherboard.
How to connect a router yourself
Usually, the installation of the device is carried out by employees of the provider company. But beginners will also be able to connect a Wi-Fi router to a computer on their own.
The equipment kit includes a router, cable and instructions. The first step is to connect your Wi-Fi router to your computer. Since the included cable is short enough, you need to install the router close to the computer. If necessary, order a longer cable from the store and crimp it.
First you need to connect the power cord from the wall outlet to the machine. Next, connect the provider's cable and the cable from the computer.
The final step is to pull the network cable into the socket on the PC.
One end of the network cable must be connected to LAN connector (yellow) router, and the second to a computer or laptop.
One of the 4 indicators on the device should light up.
The connection should be reflected in the taskbar of the PC screen.
How to properly set up a wifi router
After the connection is established, you can start setting up.
For one pc
If you connect Wi-Fi router to the computer failed, then the toolbar will light red cross.
The first step is to simply change the cable. If the connection status has changed. for example on yellow cross, then the problem is in him.
Most often, difficulties arise due to the fact that network card disabled... To fix this error you need to “ Toolbars"Select the item" Network and Internet", and then " Network connections". “” Appears among the icons. Right-click on the shortcut and select " Enable».
If there is no such shortcut at all, then on the PC driver not installed... It is best to download the driver from the disk that came with the equipment.
For PC and mobile gadgets
You can also set up a connection on a laptop through the toolbar. A shortcut to the Internet connection is displayed in the lower left corner. Click on it and go to the section " Network and Internet Settings". Available devices are displayed in the list. You need to find the name of the router on the network, click on the shortcut and press the button " Connect". If the connection is protected, the system will ask for a username and password.
The connection on the smartphone is configured in the same way. In the phone settings, you need to select the section WLAN, find the name of the wireless network in the list, and then enter login and password.
How to install a new router instead of an old one
First you need to connect a new router to your PC, as described earlier. If the device has already been configured by the provider, then immediately after connecting the cable, the Internet will work. To check it is enough to open a browser and load the pages of the sites. But in the case of replacing an old device with a new one, most often you have to change the settings.
After connecting the network cable, you need to open a browser and type in “ 192.168.1.1 " or " 192.168.0.1 "And press Enter... One of these IPs will open the settings. If none of them worked, then the correct IP must be indicated in the instructions for the router.
If everything is done correctly, a window for entering the settings will appear in the browser window. The system will ask for a username and password. When connecting for the first time in both fields, you should specify “ Admin". Instead password the combination can be applied 1234 ... Also, the login and password for the system can be specified in the instructions for the router.
If none of the proposed options worked, it was not possible to open the settings, then your connection needs additional settings. Only the provider company can understand this issue. The exact settings depend on the device model and service provider. There is no universal instruction for such cases.
The settings menu contains several items. Fill in the fields according to the instructions for your device. It is very important to come up with a strong password. Its length must exceed 7 characters... A strong password consists of latin letters and digits.
Passwords and limited access when distributing the Internet
The router itself does not provide access to the World Wide Web. It must first be configured and connected to the provider's network. At this point, the problem may arise due to limited access.
If the network cable is connected, but the adapter does not work, then there may be several reasons:
- the router is not configured correctly; the drivers are out of order; the wireless network is not configured.
In the next menu, select the item " Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP / IPv4)».
In line " IP address"You need to manually drive subnet addresswhich is indicated on the sticker at the bottom of the case.
Now let's look at how to remove restricted access on Windows 8 PC... To solve the problem, you need to reboot the network adapter. To do this, enter the line in the "" command ncpa.cpl.
A list of available connections will appear on the screen. We find the desired one and open the context menu of the RMB. In the drop-down menu, select the item " Disable», Wait until the adapter turns gray, and then reconnect the device. Another reason for an incorrect connection may be an incorrectly entered network login and password. To solve this problem, you should contact your provider.
Today, full-fledged work at a computer is possible only if you have access to the Internet. Outdated wired connections have lost ground - just connect to the nearest access point. And if adapters on laptops, as a rule, are already installed by the manufacturer, then for a stationary PC you will need to install a Wi-Fi adapter. Let's see how to choose the optimal model for different requirements.
Types of adapters
First of all, you need to decide on the type of wifi adapter for your computer. According to the features of the installation, two large groups are distinguished. The first includes external models that are connected outside the computer. The second group includes internal options that are mounted in the device case. Out of fashion, but still occurring adapters on the CardBus, installed in a special slot, stand apart.
External Wi-Fi adapters
External models are the most popular and easiest to install, since they do not require special knowledge of the computer design. They can be installed outside the PC without opening the case. It is only necessary that the corresponding port, most often USB, be free.
Sizes may vary: compact models practically do not protrude beyond the port, larger ones look like flash drives. For easier placement or better reception (for example, to physically bring the adapter closer to the access point), an extension cable can be connected.
Since USB is a universal port, external models can also be connected to almost any computer - even to a stationary one, even to a laptop. Modern operating systems are able to recognize most of these models. This USB computer adapter is automatically activated after installation.
Please note that the baud rate of the most recent models may exceed the capabilities of older connectors. For example, USB 2.0 will not be enough to use the entire channel of 802.11ac adapters - they must be plugged into high-speed USB 3.0 ports.
Occasionally there are models with an Ethernet connector. In this case, communication is established between the adapter and the computer via a regular network cable.
Internal wifi adapters
Internal options are provided for installation in the system unit. From the outside, they may not be visible at all - of course, if the model does not have a special external antenna to improve reception quality. But even in this case, it is located on the back of the PC and is practically unobtrusive. So if the appearance of the computer is critical, and it is also undesirable to occupy the USB ports, then it is better to stop at this option.
Note that when installed completely internally, the signal may not pass through as the metal parts of the case will block it. Models with a remote antenna almost never have such difficulties. Some adapters also provide for replacing the outer part with a more powerful antenna.
A typical installation option is inside a system unit in a PCI Express slot, as for a regular network card. Less common is the PCI standard, since it is already outdated. At the same time portability suffers, since quickly moving the adapter to another PC will not work, as well as easily moving it to improve reception quality.
Wi Fi Card Bus adapters
The rarest type of adapter that has practically ceased to be produced. To install it, you need a special connector. The pluses include compact dimensions and very simple setup, the minuses (along with low prevalence) low power. Most often, such models are used in laptops - for example, when the main adapter fails.
Wi-Fi adapter D-Link DWA 525
The available internal model for connecting a PC to a network is DWA 525 from the company. To connect to a Wi-Fi router, it can use 802.11 b / g / n protocols, which gives a maximum speed of 150 Mbps. In most cases, this is sufficient for reliable operation in the apartment. The model supports WEP / WPA / WPA2 encryption. To install, you need a free PCI Express or PCI slot - both versions are available, so you need to clarify which model you are purchasing.
The antenna can be removed from the adapter. The manufacturer guarantees the operation of the device in OS from Windows XP to version 8 inclusive.
WiFi adapter ASUS PCI N10
Another internal adapter. In terms of characteristics, it is similar to the previous model: installation in a PCI port, transmission speed up to the same 150 Mbit / s thanks to an external antenna and the ability to work within 802.11n. To quickly set up a connection, you can use WPS, and the connection will be automatically carried out via an encrypted channel. An additional plus - the adapter can work as an access point.
Wi Fi adapter for stationary computer PC
If the signal is weak, then the laptop can be moved closer to the access point. With a stationary computer, this trick will not work. Therefore, it is necessary to immediately select the model taking into account the conditions at the place of its installation. So, in an apartment with a complex layout or thick walls, a more powerful option may be required. But you can not limit yourself to the range of only external models or modify an existing one if the antenna cannot cope with reception.
How to choose a Wi Fi adapter
If you've already chosen between indoor and outdoor installation, it's time to take a closer look at the technical characteristics of the devices. Pay attention to the following key points when choosing a Wi Fi adapter for your PC:
- compatibility with existing devices (first of all, an access point - a router);
- support for standards as it determines the transmission speed;
- used frequency;
- power of the transmitter in the adapter;
- the ability to encrypt the connection;
- range of the receiver.
Do not limit yourself only to the speed written on the package. This is the theoretical maximum limit for this model. The above factors also affect the real speed.
Also pay attention to the future place of work. If the system unit is hidden in the depths of a massive table, then it would be logical to try to move the antenna higher using an extension cord.
Sometimes it is recommended to use an adapter from the same company that released your router. There is a bit of common sense in this: the manufacturer can test the equipment for the stability of collaboration, and the software interface is likely to be similar. In practice, popular models are quite successfully connected to routers from other manufacturers. Difficulties due to different manufacturers are extremely rare, usually with old equipment.
Compatibility
First of all, check if the computer has a corresponding free port. The PCI Express adapter cannot be put into a USB connector, as well as into a regular PCI, and a model with an Ethernet connection cannot be put into the Card Bus slot. As for the operating system, everything is simpler here: popular models support the Windows and Mac OS lines at a decent level. A complete list is provided on the packaging or accompanying documentation.
If you need to connect a specific device (for example, on an old version of Windows or a rare OS), first make sure that there are suitable drivers on the manufacturer's website or the disc supplied in the kit.
Standard
Support for one or another communication standard determines the possible high-speed communication modes between the adapter and the router. For high speed operation, support for modern 802.11n or 802.11ac is required. If you use a device that supports only g or even b standards, then the connection speed will be very, very limited - it makes sense to do this only if the router does not support faster options.
If you connect with a slow adapter, then the router will automatically go into reduced performance mode. In this case, all other connected devices will also be forced to work at a lower speed.
The minimum reasonable requirement is to support version of the standard n. It provides speeds of 150 or 300 Mbps depending on the model. This will be enough for both comfortable surfing on the net and for watching video content without long waiting times.
The 802.11ac standard features 5 GHz support and is gaining popularity over time. It provides data transfer at speeds up to 10 Gb / s. However, this speed may not be useful in home equipment. Unless you want to choose an adapter with an eye on the future, or for professional purposes like participating in online gaming tournaments or regularly working with large amounts of data.
Frequency
Wireless equipment uses two different frequencies. Older or cheaper models usually only use the 2.4 band, newer and more expensive ones can operate in both bands or exclusively on 5 GHz. Therefore, you need to make sure that the adapter and router can "make friends" and use the same frequency for communication.
Advantages of increased frequency - increased data transfer rate between devices. In addition, more channels can be accommodated in this range without overlapping. That is, individual access points, even when located close, will not interfere with each other transmitting data. And since such devices are more expensive, the radio air in this range is less busy, which has a positive effect on the stability and speed of the connection.
However, this approach has a drawback: the high-frequency signal penetrates worse through walls and other obstacles. Because of this, the radius of confident reception, other things being equal, may be smaller. If possible, it is recommended to check both connection options and choose the best one for a particular computer.
Transmitting module power
The transmitter power of the Wi Fi adapter for a computer determines the range over which the radio signal will propagate. The higher it is, the more confident the connection with the router will be. This means that the data speed will be higher. On the other hand, the legislation limits the maximum capacity.
If there are obstacles between the computer and the router, it is better to focus on values \u200b\u200bof the order of 20 dBm. In line-of-sight conditions (for example, if the access point is in the same room), less powerful models can be used.
Access encryption
Wireless connection, due to the use of radio waves, has a significant disadvantage: if you have equipment and are near the transmitter, anyone can receive the signal. That is, the data is actually being transferred in an insecure environment. So you need to take care of encryption of access so that no one outsider can connect to the channel and view what is being broadcast on the air.
The modern WPA2 standard is a whole set of technologies aimed at protecting data. An enhanced version of the WPA3 standard has just been announced. But it is better to abandon the outdated WEP right away, since hacking technologies have already been developed for it.
Range of action
An important parameter is the range of signal reception. After all, Wi-Fi is of little use if you have to spend all the time near the access point. The more powerful the transmitter, the better the antenna, the greater the distance you can confidently maintain radio communication. However, it should be borne in mind that the manufacturer indicates this parameter for ideal conditions with numerous reservations. The fact is that the distance is affected by the presence and material of the walls between the router and the adapter, the degree of radio noise (the number of routers or other radio equipment nearby), the frequency range used, etc.
Other parameters
Note the support for MIMO technology. Despite the ridiculous abbreviation, it allows you to improve the signal: instead of using one, you can use several antennas, both from the side of the router and on the adapter. In the standard version n, 4 pieces are allowed, and ac - at once 8. Since they all work in parallel, the speed is multiplied. It also has a positive effect on the stability of the connection. True, such adapters are somewhat more expensive.
If you also need to share Wi-Fi to nearby devices, check for SoftAP support - this mode allows you to use the adapter as an additional signal transmitter. Then you can install one powerful module in your PC, and connect your smartphone or tablet to it.
If the adapter is purchased to communicate directly between devices, ensure that the appropriate technology is supported. For example, it can be Wi-Fi Direct or Miracast. Otherwise, the adapter will not be useful.
Configuring and connecting a Wi Fi adapter
Next, let's look at how to configure the purchased adapter. First, it must be connected to the appropriate connector. To connect via PCI or PCI Express, you need to open the system unit. Then you need to carefully, without undue pressure, put the adapter into the slot and make sure that it is fixed there. If the module has an external antenna, it is necessary to remove the plug from the back wall and replace it with the bracket that comes with the adapter. With external models, everything is much simpler: you just need to connect it to a free USB.
Popular models are well recognized by modern operating systems. The OS can independently install all the necessary drivers and activate a new device. In this case, additional configuration may not be required - the computer will simply be able to connect to wireless networks using standard methods.
If the system did not cope with the installation in automatic mode, you need to help it. Drivers can be found on the disc (if it was included with the device) or the manufacturer's website. To activate additional functions, such as distributing Wi-Fi from a computer or fine-tuning the transmission parameters, a special proprietary utility may be required.
First steps
After installing the software, check the connection. If the drivers are installed correctly, the computer will be able to connect to your router. Enter the correct access point name and password. If necessary, set up interaction with the router - select the desired frequency range and the required standard, optimize communication using proprietary utilities.
Network problems
Sometimes the network is unstable after installation. The reasons may be different: incorrect configuration of the router or the computer itself, problems with the software, or even a malfunction of the adapter. This is manifested in the fact that the connection is interrupted some time after connecting, or the computer does not see Wi-Fi.
The reason why this happens may be trivial: an activated power saving mode for the adapter. This is often found on laptops, the OS optimizes power consumption by turning off all "unnecessary". To check, you need to open the settings in the properties of the wireless connection. Then, on the power management tab, you need to uncheck the box that allows you to turn off the device.
Router problems
You also need to check if other devices can connect to the router. For example, using a smartphone or tablet. If the other device successfully establishes a connection and maintains it stably, then the router itself is working correctly. Also try restarting your router.
Otherwise, you need to check the configuration of the access point: whether a compatible standard is used, whether the same radio channel is selected (if automatic tuning is disabled), whether the password is correct. As a last resort, you can reset the router to factory settings and then configure it again, checking each step.
It is also possible that a router firmware update is required. In this case, you will need to download it from the manufacturer's website and then update it through the router's control panel. Detailed instructions for a specific model are usually listed in the user manual.
If all the above measures do not help, check that the device is working properly. For example, contact the manufacturer's service center to check.
Software
Also, the problem may lie in an outdated wireless profile - if the settings of the router have changed, and the operating system "does not know" about it. Then you need to delete the profile, after which it will be recreated. First, run Command Prompt (CMD), then run the following command with the profile name instead:
netsh wlan delete profile name \u003d
After that, you will need to re-enter the password when connecting to the router.
If you see a message that the connection is restricted, you can set the TCP / IP settings to their default values. To do this, use the following technique on the command line:
netsh int ip reset c: \\ resetlog.txt
After rebooting, check the connection.
If this does not help, check that the driver was installed correctly. In the OS control panel, select Device Manager, then check yours in the list of network adapters. Open its settings and try reinstalling the driver (uninstall and reinstall). Use the drivers from the official site. You can also try installing an older driver version (with a lower index).
Adapter malfunction
When the above measures do not help, or the adapter is not even detected by the system, it may be the device itself. For reliability, you can try installing it on another computer. If it works there, you need to check the settings of your computer. If the adapter refuses to function on another machine, it must be replaced (if the warranty is still valid) or repaired.
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