Checking To See If You Have Wireless Capability
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Computers Technology -> subcategory Hardware.
How to Check if Your Computer Has Wireless Capability
Overview
Wondering if your new computer has wireless capability? Many modern computers come equipped with built-in software and connections for setting up a wireless network. These features are so affordable that manufacturers often include them by default; you can find this information on the system specification list.
If you're like most people, you might not even know how much memory your computer has, let alone its wireless capabilities. Let’s explore how to determine if your computer is wireless-enabled.
Intel Centrino Technology
If you have a laptop featuring 'Intel Centrino mobile technology,' your laptop is already equipped with wireless networking capabilities. Unfortunately, manufacturers don't always explain this technology well. Simply put, Intel Centrino combines the Intel Pentium M processor with Intel's Pro/Wireless card, making your laptop wireless-ready.
Look for an 'Intel Centrino' sticker on your laptop. If you don't see one, you can verify your processor type by right-clicking the My Computer icon and selecting Properties. Check the details after the word "Computer" to confirm the wireless feature.
Intel Centrino technology not only provides wireless access but also enhances battery life and allows for smaller computer sizes. If your laptop doesn’t have Intel Centrino but has a free card slot, adding wireless capabilities is easy.
Desktop Computers
Desktops can have wireless capabilities, too. To check, look at the back of your computer. If there's a wireless connection, you'll normally see a small antenna sticking out.
If there's no visible antenna, especially on newer models, it might still have a wireless device. Unless you're an expert, avoid opening the computer case. Instead, check using Windows.
Checking in Windows
You can verify wireless capabilities using Windows’ Device Manager:
1. Right-click the My Computer icon and select Manage.
2. Click on Device Manager.
3. Look under 'Network Adapters.' Devices labeled ‘10/100’ or ‘Ethernet’ are standard network connections, not wireless. Other names might indicate a wireless device.
If a wireless device has a yellow warning sign next to it in Device Manager, click it for more information. Windows will usually indicate if there's an issue. The troubleshooter may offer solutions.
Often, issues are driver-related. Use the driver CD that came with your computer. If it's missing, visit the manufacturer's website and search for drivers using the device name found in Device Manager.
If you discover there isn’t a wireless device, it's better to know early. This saves you from buying incompatible wireless equipment. If you do have a wireless device and want more capability, you're in luck?"wireless technology prices are constantly dropping!
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Checking To See If You Have Wireless Capability.
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