How to connect to the internet
Level of difficulty: Easy
The internet harnesses the expansive power of the World Wide Web, a vast repertoire of data and resources that thrills, educates and helps the user. The internet is primarily a powerful search tool and communications tool that can access any address point within its expansive network, internationally.
Materials Needed:- Specialized software
Step 1
Setting up the internet network and connecting to the internet is fairly simple, and does not require the expertise of a computer professional to install it. One needs to first make certain decisions regarding the set-up he/she wishes to implement in her computer system to enable internet access. First, one must possess at least one computer that needs to be a part of the home network. Then, one must select an ISP (Internet service provider) depending on location, connecting options, connection types and ensuing package costs. The most common connection types for home internet access have evolved with advancements in technology to give faster net access with the least amount of loss in signal traffic. The connection options are
Step 2
Cable modems - extremely affordable, and is broadband compatible. This connection is the most popular all over the world
Step 3
DSL - costlier than cable modems, but offers exceptional reliability and unmatched combination of speed and economy
Step 4
Dial-up - this connection is accessible to any location with a phone, but often becomes excruciatingly slow
Step 5
Satellite – satellite broadband services often provide clear, uninterrupted signals due to direct relay from the satellite, but is often significantly costlier
Step 6
Irrespective of the ISP used, the internet connection remains the same. Hence, despite switching ISP’s, connection to the internet never becomes different. However, individual email settings and pages given by the ISP might be lost upon switching ISPs.
Step 7
Next, one needs to set up his/her home network that would enable internet access. If there is a single computer with close proximity, the network would be established by just one cable that connects the machine to the modem or the router. However, for multiple computers, portable computers or for wireless devices (like game controllers and Xbox 360), a wireless network must be installed. The installation package and the necessary details shall be provided by the ISP.
Step 8
Finally, to initiate the connection process, one must install the network adapter. After starting Windows, the user must log on in an administrator account to access the ‘Found New Hardware Wizard’. The wizard would guide you through necessary driver installations (found in the network CD). After the fields have been installed and copied, internet could be accessed after a reboot.