This wikiHow teaches you how to connect a Windows computer to the Internet. You can do this over a wireless network using the Wi-Fi menu on your computer, or you can connect your computer to an internet source directly with an ethernet cable. Remember, connecting a computer to a network is not the same as setting up a wired computer network as is usually done in an office.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Using Wi-Fi
Step 1. Make sure the network is working properly
In order to connect to the internet network, the network modem must be connected to an internet output (such as a cable outlet), the network router must be connected to the modem, and both the modem and router must be turned on.
- Some modems have included a built-in router.
- Internet connection status can be checked from the status light on the modem and/or router. If the internet connection seems to be flickering, we recommend using Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi.
Step 2. Click the "Wi-Fi" icon
Its icon is in the lower-right corner, to the right of the taskbar (taskbar). Clicking this icon will display a pop-up menu with a list of available networks.
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Step 3. Turn on Wi-Fi if necessary
If you see a message that says "Wi-Fi Turned off" at the top of the pop-up menu, click the box Wi-Fi in the lower-left corner of the pop-up menu before you continue.
Step 4. Click the name of the wireless network
Select the name of the wireless network that you want to use to connect the computer. The network name will be expanded.
- If the network name does not appear, you may need to move the computer closer to the modem/router.
- The network name used is most likely the router/modem name, model number, and/or manufacturer name if you have not previously changed settings on that network.
Step 5. Click Connect
The button is below the expanded network name in the pop-up menu.
Step 6. Type in the network password
In the text box that appears, enter the password used to log in to the network.
- If the factory default network password has not been changed, it can be seen on a sticker usually placed on the bottom or back of the router (or modem/router combination).
- If the network does not set a password, by clicking Connect as described in the previous step can already connect the computer to the network.
Step 7. Click Next in the password text field
Doing so will enter the password and the computer will be connected to the network.
If the password is incorrect, re-enter the correct password
Step 8. Wait until the computer is connected to the network
If the computer is already connected to the network, the words "Connected" will be displayed under the network name. Now, you can use your computer to surf the internet.
Method 2 of 2: Using Ethernet
Step 1. Make sure the network can function properly
To connect a computer to an Internet network, the network modem must be connected to an Internet output (such as a cable outlet), and the router must be connected to the modem. Both of these devices must be turned on.
- Some modems have included a built-in router.
- If you don't want the internet network to be used for devices or users wirelessly, you don't need to use a router. The computer can be connected to the modem directly.
Step 2. Purchase an ethernet cable if you don't already have one
This cable is required to connect a network item (such as a computer or router) to the connected modem or router. Ethernet cables can be purchased at computer stores or online buying and selling sites such as Bukalapak or Tokopedia.
- If it's not possible for you to move your computer, purchase an Ethernet cable that's long enough to connect your modem or router to your computer.
- The length of the Ethernet cable must not exceed 100 meters, and the maximum effective length is usually 90 meters.
Step 3. Look for unused ports on your router or modem
Ethernet ports are square holes found on the back of routers and modems. An Ethernet port on a router that works will usually have "Ethernet" or "Internet" written next to it. Your router may provide several ports that you can use.
- Modems generally only provide one "Internet" port which is usually used to connect the router to the modem.
- If the computer is connected directly to a modem on a network that uses a separate router, unplug the router from the modem's ethernet port before you continue.
Step 4. Look for an ethernet port on the computer
Check your computer and look for a square-shaped ethernet port. Computer Ethernet ports are usually placed on the side (on laptops), or on the back of the case (desktops).
If your computer doesn't have an Ethernet port, purchase a USB to Ethernet adapter for that computer
Step 5. Connect the computer to the modem or router
Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into an unused port on your modem or router, then plug the other end into your computer's Ethernet port.
- The ends of the Ethernet cable are interchangeable so you can use either end of the cable to plug into your computer or router.
- If your computer does not have an ethernet port, plug the USB end of the ethernet adapter into one of the computer's USB ports before you connect the computer to your modem or router.
Step 6. Wait for the computer to connect to the internet
After detecting the ethernet connection, the computer will connect to the network. An icon shaped like a computer monitor will appear to the right of the taskbar where there was previously the "Wi-Fi" icon
. Now, you can use your computer to surf the internet.
Tips
- Ethernet is the best option if you want to get the most consistent and fast internet connection. An ethernet connection is perfect for things like playing games (games).
- Almost all problems related to Wi-Fi can be solved by restarting the computer. If your computer can't connect to the internet due to a software issue, this usually fixes the problem.
Warning
- If your network hardware (such as modem, router, and/or cable) is having problems, you may not be able to connect to the network you want.
- Do not enter sensitive data such as passwords or credit card information when you are using a network that does not have " Secured " under the name.
