There are two methods for automatically connecting to a wireless network in Windows XP. You can use the Wireless Network Setup Wizard or use the Automatic Wireless Network Configuration. Let’s discuss how to use both of these options.

To use the Wireless Network Setup Wizard, follow these steps:

1. Click on the Start Button.
2. Browse to All Programs, Accessories, Communications.
3. Click on the Wireless Network Setup Wizard icon. The below window will appear.

 

 

Select the Next Button to continue. The following screen allows you to choose between setting up a new wireless network and modifying a ‘free’ network. Let’s select the option, “Set up a New Wireless Network,” and click Next to continue.

 

 

The following screen allows you to set the SSID name (wireless network name), and WEP key settings. You may also apply additional security for WEP by using WPA encryption. Click Next to continue.

 

 

The next screen allows you to set up the network. You may choose to save your wireless network settings to a USB flash drive or set up the connection manually. We will choose the radio button to set up a network manually and click Next to continue.

 

 

Once the network is set up, you will see the completion screen pictured below. This screen provides you with a summary of your choices. You may also print the network settings. Click the Finish button to finish with the wizard.

 

 

To automatically connect to a Wireless Network, follow these steps:

1. Open the Network Connections window.
2. Click the wireless network connection icon and then click View Available Wireless Networks under the Network Tasks pane.
3. Select the wireless network that you want to connect to and click Properties.
4. On the Connections tab, click Connect automatically to this wireless network when it’s in range. (Note: The option Connect automatically to this wireless network when it’s in range is only available after running the Wireless Network Setup Wizard.)

 

To disable Automatic Wireless Network Configuration, use these steps:

1. Open the Network Connections window.
2. Right click on the Wireless Network Connection, and select properties.
3. On the Wireless Networks tab, clear the checkbox for Use Windows to configure my wireless network settings.