I have a Dell 5100 I bought in 04' I think. It has a wireless program on it but it doesn't work I think. Do I need a wireless card? How do I tell if my computer is capable w/o the card or not?
When I get one is it plug and play or do I install it? What is a good one to get?
Thanks.
2006-06-21 06:16:16 · 5 answers · asked by WDubsW 5 in Computers & Internet ➔ Internet
You can check your capabilities by checking the device Manager. A Wireless Lan card will be listed under LAN Adapters.
If you don't see one listed, then yes, this is what you will need. If you DO see one listed, check the driver, and perhaps even download the newest driver for your adapter.
If the adapter still is not working, you may need to replace it.
2006-06-21 06:22:49 · answer #1 · answered by Marvinator 7 · 7⤊ 2⤋
You need a wireless adapter/card. Since you seem to be a novice get a wireless adapter that plugs into your USB port. Small rectangular port thats on the front and back of your PC.
Follow the instructions. You need to load the software first.
The other part is you need a wireless router. That will allow you to connect to the internet through the wireless adapter. Netgear, linksys, d-link, belkin, etc all make products to do this.
2006-06-21 13:21:47 · answer #2 · answered by thunder2sys 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Virtually any computer can work in a wireless environment. Now it depends on what you are looking to do. Most people will purchase a wireless router to work in conjunction with their existing cable/dsl modem, allowing wireless periphs to connect. You can also make your desktop wireless if you are unable to have it near your closest cable/phone jack..you will have to move it temporarily for configuration purposes but after installing a wireless card in an available PCI slot you will be set!
2006-06-21 13:21:13 · answer #3 · answered by Sam F 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you need to buy a wireless card first (either USB or via PCI) Most computers don't have pre installed wireless.
You usually have to install the drivers, which only takes about 10 minutes. then you plug it in and connect to your wireless router.
2006-06-21 13:21:45 · answer #4 · answered by Mike-Q 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You could buy a USB plug and play wireless adapter. They are around 20 bucks and come with software to help you manage your wireless.
2006-06-21 13:22:28 · answer #5 · answered by TheAnomaly 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋