- Insert your wireless card into the computer. Click on "Connect to" from the Start menu or the Control Panel, and select "Show all connections." Make sure XP is recognizing the wireless card (it may take a few moments to do so).
- Once the wireless card appears under LAN or High Speed connections, right-click the mouse button and select "Show all available wireless networks." XP automatically recognizes most devices and can find the appropriate drivers; however, if XP fails to recognize the hardware, you may have to use software provided by the wireless card manufacturer.
- The window will show available wireless networks. Click on "Advanced."
- Once the Properties window opens, click "Add" under Preferred Networks. In the Network Name slot, enter "UABWiFi" without the quotes. Make sure Data Encryption is set to WEP.
- In the "Network key" and "Confirm network key" fields, enter the previously assigned WEP key (see note on the UABWiFi WEP key). Click "OK" to close the window.
- After you have entered the WEP key, click on the "Authentication" tab. Make sure the box next to "Enable IEEE 8.2 ... " is NOT checked, and that the "LAN type" menu is on " ... Card, or Certificate." Click OK to close the window.
In a few moments, the list of available wireless networks should include UABWiFi. A connection monitor should appear in the Toolbar once a connection is established.
By clicking on it, you can find details about the connection, such as bandwidth strength and speed.
Once your connection has been configured, you will still need to authenticate through your Web browser. Follow the on-screen instructions upon opening your browser window to gain access to UAB WiFi.