An internet connection can be hooked up to a Dell laptop in a number of different ways. The first order of business is to have a network router. This device establishes a connection with the world wide web through an internet service provider. Once this is done, it is usually a good idea to assign a WEP security key to prevent unauthorized access to the network. Users can gain unrestricted access
. to a wireless network in the absence of any security protocols. A network connection can also be established via an ethernet cable. This puts the laptop on the LAN, instead of connecting with WiFi. Sometimes this can cause an increase in performance, especially in cases where the router and laptop are on different rooms or floors in a building. Most of the time, the ease and flexibility of a wireless connection outweighs the potential drawbacks. With this option, a person can freely move their laptop while retaining full connectivity and does not have to worry about wires. Some find this course of action much more aesthetically pleasing, as multiple wires clutter up a space and make it seem disorganized. One can also connect a Dell laptop to the home group with the Windows 7 operating system. This allows for easier file sharing between machines. There is yet another way to establish an internet connection as well. With the advent of the smartphone and mobile hot spots, one can use their cellphone's internet connection on their computer. This process is usually as simple as installing a program on both the phone and laptop, and then connecting the phone to the computer via USB. This avenue is not recommended for users without an unlimited data plan as a computer can use much more bandwidth than a smartphone. For more information, please see: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Connect-to-the-Internet http://techtips.salon.com/instructions-hooking-up-internet-through-router-11174.html http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Connect-to-the-Internet or http://techtips.salon.com/instructions-hooking-up-internet-through-router-11174.html
