Technical information

Windows 8 For Dummies, Dell Pocket Edition
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icon changes shape, depending on your
surroundings:
 •Available: When the icon says Available,
you’re within range of a wireless network.
Start salivating and move to the next step.
 •Unavailable: When the icon says Unavailable,
you’re out of range. Time to head for a different
seat in the coffee shop or perhaps a different
coffee shop altogether. Then return to Step 1.
3. Click or tap the Available icon if it’s present.
Windows lists all the wireless networks within
range of your PC. Don’t be surprised to see sev-
eral networks listed; if you’re at home, your
neighbors probably see your network listed, too.
4. Choose to connect to the desired network by
clicking its name and clicking the Connect button.
If you select the adjacent Connect Automatically
check box before clicking the Connect button,
Windows automatically connects to that
network the next time you’re within range,
sparing you from connecting manually each
time.
If you’re connecting to an unsecured network — a
network that doesn’t require a password — you’re
finished. Windows warns you about connecting to
an unsecured network, but a click or tap of the
Connect button lets you connect anyway. (Don’t
do any shopping or banking on an unsecured
connection.)
5. Enter a password if needed.
If you try to connect to a security-enabled wireless
connection, Windows asks you to enter a network
security key — technospeak for password. If you’re
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