If you are using a PCMCIA wireless network adapter
In Microsoft Windows XP, let Windows re-detect the wireless adapter. Remove the adapter from the PCMCIA slot and re-insert it while Windows is running.
In Windows 98, ME, or 2000, shutdown the notebook and remove the PCMCIA wireless adapter. Power on the notebook without the wireless adapter inserted. Then shutdown the notebook and re-insert the PCMCIA card. Restart the notebook and let Windows install the necessary drivers.
Update the PCMCIA wireless adapter software and drivers. Locate the updated software and drivers at the adapter's manufacturer Web site.
Some PCMCIA wireless network adapters have lights that indicate certain network behaviors.
If there is no light on the adapter then it may not be connected properly to the notebook.
If the light is blinking then your notebook may be out of range of the wireless network or the network may not be configured properly.
A solid light usually indicates that the card is receiving the wireless signal and the network is configured properly.
Router troubleshooting
There are many types of wireless routers available today from various manufacturers. For troubleshooting information specific to your router see the manufacturer's Web site or the documentation that was provided with the router.
Check the cables
Verify that the router is connected to the power adapter or cable and is turned on.
A network cable should connect your wireless router to the source of your internet connection, for example, a LAN, Cable, or DSL modem.
Check the lights
Most routers have lights that indicate specific network conditions. Your specific router may have different lights.
The Power light should always be solidly on. If the power light is not on, check the power adapter or try a new power outlet.
The Test light should be on only when the router is first turned on or if it is reset. If the Test light is always on, your router may have a mechanical problem.
The Internet Link light should be solidly on if the router is connected to a LAN, DSL, or Cable modem. The DSL or Cable modem must be on for the Link light to be solid.
The WLAN or Wireless light should be solidly on at all times. Even when there are not any wireless devices connected to the router. The WLAN activity light should flash when there are packets being sent or received from any computer connected through the router.
Encryption settings
Incorrect configuration of your encryption settings is the most common cause of wireless network problems. Depending upon the type of wireless network you are connecting to, wireless encryption (WEP) can vary in complexity and security. In general, follow these steps to resolve encryption problems:
Verify that the wireless network connection is Enabled.
Right-click the Wireless Network Connection icon in your System Tray (see Figure 3) and select Open Network Connections.
Figure 2: Wireless network connection icon with red X
Right-click Wireless Network Connection and select Enable.
Verify that your notebook can see the name or SSID of the wireless network that you are connecting to.
Right-click the Wireless Network Connection icon in the System Tray (see Figure 2).
Figure 3: Wireless Connection icon
Select View Available Wireless Networks.
The network name you are connecting to should be listed under Available wireless networks. If the name is not listed check your wireless router using Router troubleshooting .
Confirm that the Network key and Key index configured in your notebook matches the Network key or Key index required by the wireless router or access point.
Right-click the Wireless Network Connection icon in your System Tray (see Figure 3) and select Open Network Connections.
Right-click Wireless Network Connection and select Properties.
Select the Wireless Networks tab.
In the Available networks list, select the network name you are connecting to and click Configure.
Figure 4: Available networks list
Enter the correct wireless encryption data by typing the Network key into the Network key: and Confirm network key: text boxes. Then select the correct number in the Key index (advanced) box.
Figure 5: Encryption settings
See your network administrator or your wireless router software for the required Network key and Key index. Most wireless router settings can be accessed by typing the following url in the Address bar of Internet Explorer:
http://192.168.1.1
Changes Required to Support WPA
WPA requires software changes to the following:
Wireless access points
Wireless network adapters
Wireless client programs
NOTE: The new Encryption Standard Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is not supported under the current Windows XP operating system prior to service pack 2 (SP2). Please follow the instructions in Microsoft Knowledge Base Article - 815485 “Overview of the WPA Wireless Security Update in Windows XP” to obtain WPA functionality.
Environmental interference
Many times the performance of your wireless network can be affected by environmental factors. These factors will not always cause interference but must be considered at some point during your wireless network troubleshooting.
2.4 GHz cordless phones
Microwave ovens
Electrical parameter fences
Electrical transformers near the router
Security systems
Other wireless network transmitters near the router
Related support
HP Wireless Networking Center
HP - Go Wireless Manual
HP Pavilion and Compaq Presario Notebook PCs - Connecting to a Wireless Local Area Network
HP Pavilion and Compaq Presario Notebook PCs - Using Bluetooth Wireless Personal Area Networks
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