Wireless Hotspots
  

  
  
wireless hotspots
wireless questions and answers
Do I need to Update Windows for wireless?
You do not need to update Windows to connect to a wireless network,  however, it is a good idea to keep your software fully patched and up-to-date.  Microsoft recommends that you install all the "service packs"  for your version of Windows.  Updates are available at http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/.
Why am I having a problem using the wireless network?  I'm running Windows XP.
Two very common problems with laptops running Windows XP are:
  • On some XP laptops with both wireless and wired (Ethernet) connectivity, vendors ship with the "Network Bridge" turned on. You may need to delete or disable this (under Control Panel, Network Connections).  Instructions for removing or disabling the network bridge are available from this Microsoft website. 
     
  • Numerous problems have been reported with Windows XP Service Pack 1 that are resolved by Service Pack 2 (SP2).  Please check http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/ to make sure you have installed Service Pack 2.  If you need to install SP2, we recommend consulting David Pogue's helpful article on how to successfully install the update.
Why am I having a problem using the wireless network?  I'm running Windows 2000.
A machine with an integrated wireless card and running Windows 2000 might stop to work after installing SP3.  Microsoft Knowledge Base article 327947  http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=327947  states that Windows 2000 SP3 turns off PCMCIA-to-PCI IRQ routing, which causes problems for integrated Lucent/Orinoco wireless adapters.  You need to follow the instructions in the Microsoft Support document to re-enable the card.
Will Bluetooth transmissions interfere with my Wireless connection?
No, both Bluetooth and WLAN can co-exist.  Since Bluetooth devices use Frequency Hopping and most wireless networks use "Direct Sequence Spreading techniques" they each appear as background noise to each other and should not cause any significant problems.
Will use of the wireless network reduce my laptop's battery life? 
No, accessing the wireless network does not increase the use of your battery.
I have problems connecting to the wireless network with Internet Explorer.
In some cases, a proxy server setting is present in your browser.  To access the wireless network you will need to turn off proxy servers.   To check proxy setting, go under Internet Options, Connections tab, verify that the Dial-up and Virtual Private Network settings are set to "Never dial a connection".   Then, under Local Area Network (LAN) Settings, uncheck each of the following:
  • "Automatic Detect Settings",
  • "Use Automatic Configuration Script", and
  • "Use a Proxy Server for your LAN"
 
More Wireless Access FAQs Technical Assistance
     

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