Connect to WiFi on Windows 8
Wireless networks are everywhere these days, and connecting your Windows 8 computer to a wireless network will allow you to browse the web and connect to other computers on the network. This article shows you how to connect to a WiFi network on Windows 8.
Steps
- Ensure that your wireless card is enabled.
- Some devices can toggle the wireless on and off. The toggle may be associated with any key, but is usually the Fn button.
- Many desktops do not have a wireless card installed. If this is the case, you will need to install a wireless card first.
- You can double-check that your wireless adapter is properly installed by opening the Network Connections window. The quickest way to get to this window is by pressing ⊞ Win+R, typing ncpa.cpl, and clicking OK. Look for your wireless adapter in the connections list. If it is listed as "Disabled", right-click it and select Enable.
- Open the Charms bar. Swipe in from the right side of the screen, or press ⊞ Win+C on your keyboard.
- Tap or click Settings. The Settings menu is designated by a Gear icon.
- Tap or click the Wireless Network icon. It looks like ascending signal bars. This will open all list of available wireless networks.
- Enable WiFi connectivity. Toggle the WiFi slider to the on position.
- Select the network. Choose your desired network from the list of available networks. If you don't see your network, ensure that you are close enough to the router to receive the signal and that the network is operational.
- If you are connecting to a cellular data network, look for the "Mobile broadband" section and fill in your network information.
- Enter in the security information. If the network is secured, you'll be asked to enter in the password for the network. If you don't know the password, ask the owner of the network. If you've forgotten your own password, see this guide.
- Remember the connection. Check the "Connect automatically" box to enable your device to automatically connect to the network as long as you are in range. This will keep you from having to enter in the connection information every time.
- If the password for the network changes, you will be asked to reenter it.
- Choose your sharing options. If you are on a public network, do not allow sharing. This will help protect your files from unwanted viewers.
- Test your connection. Open your web browser and try to visit a website. If you are able to load a website, you have successfully connected to the network. Some public WiFi networks require you to fill out a registration form on your web browser before you can access the rest of the internet.
