HP ProBook 4435s User Manual
HP Notebook User Guide
© Copyright 2011 Hewlett-Packard
Development Company, L.P.
Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its
proprietor and used by Hewlett-Packard
Company under license. SD Logo is a
trademark of its proprietor.
The information contained herein is subject
to change without notice. The only
warranties for HP products and services are
set forth in the express warranty statements
accompanying such products and services.
Nothing herein should be construed as
constituting an additional warranty. HP shall
not be liable for technical or editorial errors
or omissions contained herein.
First Edition: July 2011
Document Part Number: 656968-001
Product notice
This guide describes features that are
common to most models. Some features
may not be available on your computer.
To obtain the latest information in this
guide, go to the HP Web site at
http://www.hp.com/support.
Software terms
By installing, copying, downloading, or
otherwise using any software product
preinstalled on this computer, you agree to
be bound by the terms of the HP End User
License Agreement (EULA). If you do not
accept these license terms, your sole
remedy is to return the entire unused
product (hardware and software) within 14
days for a refund subject to the refund
policy of your place of purchase.
For any further information or for requesting
a full refund of the computer, please
contact your local point of sale (the seller).
Safety warning notice
WARNING! To reduce the possibility of heat-related injuries or of overheating the computer, do not
place the computer directly on your lap or obstruct the computer air vents. Use the computer only on
a hard, flat surface. Do not allow another hard surface, such as an adjoining optional printer, or a soft
surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, to block airflow. Also, do not allow the AC adapter to
come into contact with the skin or a soft surface, such as pillows or rugs or clothing, during operation.
The computer and the AC adapter comply with the user-accessible surface temperature limits defined
by the International Standard for Safety of Information Technology Equipment (IEC 60950).
iii
iv Safety warning notice
Table of contents
1 Welcome .......................................................................................................................................................... 1
Finding information ............................................................................................................................... 2
2 Getting to know your computer ..................................................................................................................... 3
Top ....................................................................................................................................................... 4
TouchPad ............................................................................................................................ 4
Lights ................................................................................................................................... 5
Buttons and fingerprint reader (select models only) ............................................................ 6
Keys ..................................................................................................................................... 8
Front ................................................................................................................................................... 10
Right ................................................................................................................................................... 11
Left ..................................................................................................................................................... 12
Display ................................................................................................................................................ 14
Bottom ................................................................................................................................................ 15
3 Networking .................................................................................................................................................... 16
Using an Internet service provider (ISP) ............................................................................................ 17
Identifying wireless and network status icons .................................................................................... 17
Creating a wireless connection .......................................................................................................... 17
Turning wireless devices on and off .................................................................................. 17
Using the wireless button .................................................................................. 17
Using the operating system controls ................................................................. 17
Using a WLAN .................................................................................................................................... 18
Connecting to an existing WLAN ....................................................................................... 18
Setting up a new WLAN ..................................................................................................... 18
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................................... 19
Roaming to another network .............................................................................................. 19
Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only) ...................................................................... 20
Connecting to a wired network ........................................................................................................... 20
Using a modem (select models only) ................................................................................. 20
Connecting a modem cable .............................................................................. 20
v
Connecting a country- or region-specific modem cable adapter ....................... 21
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) (select models only) ........................................ 22
4 Keyboard and pointing devices ................................................................................................................... 23
Using the keyboard ............................................................................................................................ 24
Identifying the hotkeys ....................................................................................................... 24
Using keypads ................................................................................................................... 25
Using the embedded numeric keypad (select models only) .............................. 26
Turning the embedded numeric keypad on and off .......................... 27
Switching key functions on the embedded numeric keypad ............. 27
Using the integrated numeric keypad (select models only) ............................... 27
Using the fingerprint reader (select models only) .............................................................. 28
Locating the fingerprint reader .......................................................................... 28
Enabling fingerprint authentication during logon ............................................... 28
Enrolling your fingerprint ................................................................................... 28
Using the TouchPad ........................................................................................................................... 29
Turning the TouchPad off and on ...................................................................................... 29
Navigating .......................................................................................................................... 29
Selecting ............................................................................................................................ 29
Using TouchPad gestures ................................................................................................. 30
Scrolling ............................................................................................................ 31
Pinching/Zooming ............................................................................................. 31
Rotating ............................................................................................................. 31
Flicking .............................................................................................................. 32
Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 32
5 Multimedia ..................................................................................................................................................... 33
Using the audio features .................................................................................................................... 33
Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 34
Checking your audio functions ........................................................................................... 34
Using the Webcam (select models only) ............................................................................................ 34
Using video devices ........................................................................................................................... 35
VGA ................................................................................................................................... 35
HDMI .................................................................................................................................. 37
Configuring audio for HDMI ............................................................................... 37
6 Power management ...................................................................................................................................... 38
Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 38
Setting power options ......................................................................................................................... 39
Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 39
vi
Initiating and exiting Suspend ........................................................................... 39
Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 39
Using the Power icon ......................................................................................................... 40
Using power management ................................................................................................. 40
Viewing the current power management settings ............................................. 40
Changing the current power management settings .......................................... 40
Using battery power ........................................................................................................................... 40
Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................................... 41
Inserting or removing the battery ....................................................................................... 42
Charging a battery ............................................................................................................. 43
Maximizing battery life ....................................................................................................... 44
Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 44
Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 44
Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 45
Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 45
Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is available ... 45
Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available .... 45
Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit
Hibernation ....................................................................................... 45
Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 45
Storing a battery ................................................................................................................ 45
Disposing of a used battery ............................................................................................... 46
Replacing the battery ......................................................................................................... 46
Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 46
Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................... 47
7 Drives ............................................................................................................................................................. 48
Handling drives ................................................................................................................................... 48
Replacing or upgrading the hard drive ............................................................................................... 49
Removing the hard drive .................................................................................................... 49
Installing a hard drive ......................................................................................................... 50
8 External cards and devices .......................................................................................................................... 53
Using Media Card Reader cards ........................................................................................................ 53
Inserting a digital card ........................................................................................................ 53
Removing a digital card ..................................................................................................... 54
Using ExpressCards ........................................................................................................................... 54
Configuring an ExpressCard .............................................................................................. 55
Inserting an ExpressCard .................................................................................................. 56
Removing an ExpressCard ................................................................................................ 57
Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 57
vii
Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 58
Removing a USB device .................................................................................................... 58
Using optional external devices .......................................................................................................... 59
Using optional external drives ............................................................................................ 59
9 Memory modules .......................................................................................................................................... 60
10 Security ........................................................................................................................................................ 65
Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 65
Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 66
Setting passwords in the operating system ....................................................................... 66
Setting passwords in Computer Setup .............................................................................. 66
Managing an administrator password ............................................................... 67
Entering an administrator password .................................................................. 67
Managing a power-on password ....................................................................... 67
Entering a power-on password ......................................................................... 68
Using firewall software ....................................................................................................................... 69
Installing an optional security cable .................................................................................................... 70
11 Backup and Recovery ................................................................................................................................ 71
Performing a system recovery ............................................................................................................ 72
Backing up your information ............................................................................................................... 73
12 Computer Setup (BIOS) and Advanced System Diagnostics ................................................................. 74
Starting Computer Setup .................................................................................................................... 74
Using Computer Setup ....................................................................................................................... 74
Navigating and selecting in Computer Setup ..................................................................... 74
Restoring factory settings in Computer Setup ................................................................... 75
Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................................. 75
Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................................... 76
Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................................. 76
Using Advanced System Diagnostics ................................................................................................. 77
13 MultiBoot ..................................................................................................................................................... 78
About the boot device order ............................................................................................................... 78
Enabling boot devices in Computer Setup ......................................................................................... 79
Considering boot order changes ........................................................................................................ 80
Choosing MultiBoot preferences ........................................................................................................ 81
Setting a new boot order in Computer Setup ..................................................................... 81
Dynamically choosing a boot device using the f9 prompt .................................................. 81
viii
Setting a MultiBoot Express prompt .................................................................................. 82
Entering MultiBoot Express preferences ........................................................................... 82
Appendix A Troubleshooting and support .................................................................................................... 83
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................. 83
The computer is unable to start up .................................................................................... 83
The computer screen is blank ............................................................................................ 83
Software is functioning abnormally .................................................................................... 84
The computer is on but not responding ............................................................................. 84
The computer is unusually warm ....................................................................................... 84
An external device is not working ...................................................................................... 84
The wireless network connection is not working ................................................................ 85
The optical disc tray does not open for removal of a CD or DVD ...................................... 85
The computer does not detect the optical drive ................................................................. 86
A disc does not play ........................................................................................................... 86
A movie is not visible on an external display ..................................................................... 86
The process of burning a disc does not begin, or it stops before completion .................... 87
Contacting customer support ............................................................................................................. 87
Labels ................................................................................................................................................. 88
Appendix B Cleaning your computer ............................................................................................................. 89
Cleaning products .............................................................................................................................. 89
Cleaning procedures .......................................................................................................................... 90
Cleaning the display .......................................................................................................... 90
Cleaning the sides and cover ............................................................................................ 90
Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard .............................................................................. 90
Appendix C Specifications .............................................................................................................................. 91
Input power ......................................................................................................................................... 92
Operating environment ....................................................................................................................... 93
Appendix D Electrostatic discharge .............................................................................................................. 94
Index ................................................................................................................................................................... 95
ix
x
1Welcome
The following sections are included in this chapter:
Finding information
●
After you set up and register the computer, take the following steps:
Connect to the Internet—Set up your wired or wireless network so that you can connect to the
●
Internet. For more information, refer to
Networking on page 16.
Get to know your computer—Learn about your computer features. Refer to
●
your computer on page 3 and Keyboard and pointing devices on page 23 for additional
information.
Find installed software—Access a list of the software preinstalled on the computer. Select
●
Computer > More Applications. The list of preinstalled software is displayed.
NOTE: For details about using the software included with the computer, select Computer >
Help. You can also refer to the software manufacturer's instructions, which may be provided with
the software or on the manufacturer's Web site.
Update programs and drivers—Update your programs and drivers with the latest versions on a
●
regular basis. When your computer is registered, it will automatically be updated with the latest
versions. When you register, you can choose to receive automatic notifications when updates
become available. The automatic notifications for operating system updates are available for 90
days. You can also go to
http://www.hp.com/support to download updates from HP.
Getting to know
1
Finding information
The computer comes with several resources to help you perform various tasks.
Resources For information about
Setup Instructions poster
Linux Help
To access the Linux Help, select Computer > Help.
Regulatory, Safety, and Environmental Notices
To access the notices, double-click the HP
Documents icon located on the desktop.
Safety & Comfort Guide
To access this guide, double-click the HP Documents
icon located on the desktop.
– or –
Go to
http://www.hp.com/ergo.
Worldwide Telephone Numbers booklet
This booklet is provided with your computer.
HP Web site
Setting up the computer
●
● Identifying computer components
Computer software
●
● Computer settings
● Connecting to the Internet
● Computer utilities
● Regulatory and safety information
Battery disposal information
●
Proper workstation setup, posture, health, and work habits
●
● Electrical and mechanical safety information
HP support telephone numbers
Support information
●
To access this Web site, go to
support.
Limited Warranty*
To access the warranty:
Double-click the HP Documents icon located on the
desktop.
– or –
Go to
http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments.
*You can find the expressly provided HP Limited Warranty applicable to your product located with the user guides on your
computer and/or on the CD/DVD provided in the box. In some countries/regions, HP may provide a printed HP Limited
Warranty in the box. For some countries/regions where the warranty is not provided in printed format, you may request a
printed copy at
North America: Hewlett-Packard, MS POD, 11311 Chinden Blvd, Boise, ID 83714, USA
●
● Europe, Middle East, Africa: Hewlett-Packard, POD, Via G. Di Vittorio, 9, 20063, Cernusco s/Naviglio (MI), Italy
Asia Pacific: Hewlett-Packard, POD, P.O. Box 200, Alexandra Post Office, Singapore 911507
●
Please include your product number, warranty period (found on your serial number label), name and postal address.
http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments or write to:
http://www.hp.com/
● Ordering parts and finding additional help
● Software, driver, and BIOS updates
● Accessories available for the device
Warranty information
2 Chapter 1 Welcome
2 Getting to know your computer
The following sections are included in this chapter:
Top
●
Front
●
Right
●
Left
●
Display
●
Bottom
●
3
Top
TouchPad
Component Description
(1) TouchPad on/off button Turns the TouchPad on and off.
(2) TouchPad zone Moves the pointer and selects or activates items on the
(3) Left TouchPad button Functions like the left button on an external mouse.
(4) Right TouchPad button Functions like the right button on an external mouse.
screen.
4 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Lights
Component Description
(1) TouchPad light ● Amber: The TouchPad is off.
Off: The TouchPad is on.
●
(2) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on.
(3)
(4)
(5)
Power light
QuickWeb light ● On: The computer is on.
Wireless light
On: The computer is on.
●
● Blinking: The computer is in the Suspend state.
Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.
●
Blinking: The Web browser is loading.
●
Off: The computer is off, in the Suspend state, or in
●
Hibernation.
White: An integrated wireless device, such as a
●
wireless local area network (WLAN) device and/or a
Bluetooth® device, is on.
Amber: All wireless devices are off.
●
Top 5
Buttons and fingerprint reader (select models only)
Component Description
(1)
Power button
When the computer is off, press the button to turn on
●
the computer.
● When the computer is on, press the button briefly to
initiate Suspend.
When the computer is in the Suspend state, press the
●
button briefly to exit Suspend.
When the computer is in Hibernation, press the button
●
briefly to exit Hibernation.
If the computer has stopped responding and operating
system shutdown procedures are ineffective, press and hold
the power button for at least 5 seconds to turn off the
computer.
To learn more about your power settings:
1. Select Computer > Control Center
2. In the left pane, click System, and then click Power
Management in the right pane.
6 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
(2)
(3) Wireless button Turns the wireless feature on or off but does not establish a
(4) Fingerprint reader (select models only) Allows a fingerprint logon to the operating system, instead of
QuickWeb button (select models only)
When the computer is on, press the button to open the
●
default Web browser.
NOTE: Pressing the QuickWeb button a second time
opens a second browser window.
● When the computer is off, in the Suspend state, or in
Hibernation, the button does not perform any action or
function.
wireless connection unless it is already configured.
a password logon.
Top 7
Keys
NOTE: Refer to the illustration that most closely matches your computer.
Component Description
(1) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in
combination with the fn key.
(2) num lk key (select models only) Turns the embedded numeric keypad on and off when
pressed in combination with the fn key.
NOTE: The keypad function that is active when the
computer is turned off is reinstated when the computer is
turned back on.
(3) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed in
combination with a function key or the num lk key.
(4)
(5) Embedded numeric keypad (select models
(6)
Operating system logo key Displays the operating system menu.
only)
Operating system applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.
When the keypad is turned on, it can be used like an
external numeric keypad.
Each key on the keypad performs the function indicated by
the icon in the upper-right corner of the key.
8 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
(1) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in
(2) num lk key (select models only) Alternates between the navigational and numeric functions
(3) Integrated numeric keypad (select models
(4) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed
(5)
(6)
only)
Operating system logo key Displays the operating system menu.
Operating system applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.
combination with the fn key.
on the integrated numeric keypad.
NOTE: The keypad function that is active when the
computer is turned off remains on when the computer is
turned back on.
When the num lk has been enabled, it can be used like an
external numeric keypad.
in combination with a function key.
Top 9
Front
Component Description
(1)
(2) 6–in-1 Media Card Reader Supports the following digital card formats:
(3)
Hard drive light
Audio-out (headphone) jack Produces sound when connected to optional powered
Blinking white: The hard drive is being accessed.
●
● Amber: HP 3D DriveGuard has temporarily parked
the hard drive.
● Memory Stick Pro
Memory Stick Duo Pro
●
MultiMediaCard
●
● MultiMediaCard Micro
Secure Digital (SD) Card
●
Secure Digital (SD) Card Micro
●
stereo speakers, headphones, earbuds, a headset, or
television audio.
WARNING! To reduce the risk of personal injury, adjust
the volume before putting on headphones, earbuds, or a
headset. For additional safety information, refer to the
Regulatory, Safety, and Environmental Notices.
NOTE: When a device is connected to the jack, the
computer speakers are disabled.
(4)
Audio-in (microphone) jack Connects an optional computer headset microphone,
10 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
stereo array microphone, or monaural microphone.
Right
Component Description
(1)
(2)
(3) Optical drive (select models only) Reads and writes (select models only) to an optical disc.
(4) Optical drive light Lights when the optical drive is active.
(5) Optical drive eject button Releases the optical drive disc tray.
USB 2.0 ports (2) Connect optional USB devices.
RJ-11 (modem) jack (select models only) Connects a modem cable.
Right 11
Left
Component Description
(1)
(2)
(3) Power connector Connects an AC adapter.
(4) Vent Enables airflow to cool internal components.
(5)
Security cable slot Attaches an optional security cable to the computer.
NOTE: The security cable is designed to act as a
deterrent, but it may not prevent the computer from being
mishandled or stolen.
Battery light
External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.
Amber: The computer is connected to external power
●
and the battery is 0 to 90% charged.
● White: The computer is connected to external power
and the battery is 90 to 99% charged.
Blinking amber: A battery that is the only available
●
power source has reached a low battery level. When
the battery reaches a critical battery level, the battery
light begins blinking rapidly.
Off: The battery is fully charged.
●
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool
internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal
for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine
operation.
(6)
(7)
(8)
RJ-45 (network) jack Connects a network cable.
HDMI port Connects an optional video or audio device, such as a high-
ExpressCard slot Reads and writes to ExpressCards.
12 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
definition television, or any compatible digital or audio
component.
Component Description
(9)
(10)
USB 3.0 port Connects an optional USB device.
NOTE: Some models may show a slightly different icon.
USB 2.0 port Connects an optional USB device.
Left 13
Display
Component Description
(1) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
(2) Internal display switch Turns off the display or initiates Suspend if the display is closed
(3) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
(4) Internal microphone(s) (1 or 2 depending on
model)
(5) Webcam light (select models only) On: The webcam is in use.
(6) Webcam (select models only) Records video and captures still photographs.
*The antennas are not visible from the outside of the computer. For optimal transmission, keep the areas immediately
around the antennas free from obstructions. To see wireless regulatory notices, refer to the section of the Regulatory, Safety,
and Environmental Notices that applies to your country or region.
while the power is on.
NOTE: The display switch is not visible from the outside of the
computer.
local area networks (WLAN).
Record sound.
14 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Bottom
Component Description
(1)
(2) Battery bay Holds the battery.
(3) Vents (2) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
(4)
Battery and access cover release latches Release the battery from the battery bay and the access
cover from the computer.
NOTE: The computer fan starts up automatically to cool
internal components and prevent overheating. It is normal
for the internal fan to cycle on and off during routine
operation.
Hard drive bay and wireless and memory
module compartments
Holds the hard drive, and also contains the wireless LAN
module slot and the memory module slot.
CAUTION: To prevent an unresponsive system, replace
the wireless module only with a wireless module
authorized for use in the computer by the governmental
agency that regulates wireless devices in your country or
region. If you replace the module and then receive a
warning message, remove the module to restore computer
functionality, and then contact technical support.
Bottom 15
3Networking
The following sections are included in this chapter:
Using an Internet service provider (ISP)
●
Identifying wireless and network status icons
●
Creating a wireless connection
●
Using a WLAN
●
Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only)
●
Connecting to a wired network
●
Your computer may support one or both of the following types of Internet access:
Wireless—For mobile Internet access, you can use a wireless connection. Refer to
●
to an existing WLAN on page 18 or Setting up a new WLAN on page 18.
● Wired—You can access the Internet by connecting to a wired network. For information on
connecting to a wired network, refer to
NOTE: Internet hardware and software features vary depending on computer model and your
location.
Connecting to a wired network on page 20.
Connecting
16 Chapter 3 Networking
Using an Internet service provider (ISP)
Before you can connect to the Internet, you must establish an ISP account. Contact a local ISP to
purchase Internet service and a modem. The ISP can help set up the modem, install a network cable
to connect your wireless computer to the modem, and test the Internet service.
NOTE: Your ISP will give you a user ID and password to access the Internet. Record this
information and store it in a safe place.
Identifying wireless and network status icons
Icon Name Description
Wireless (connected) Indicates that one or more wireless devices are on.
Network Connection
(connected)
Network Connection
(disconnected)
Creating a wireless connection
Your computer may be equipped with one or more of the following wireless devices:
● Wireless local area network (WLAN) device
Bluetooth® device
●
Turning wireless devices on and off
Using the wireless button
Use the wireless button to turn both the wireless network controller and the Bluetooth controller off or
on simultaneously. They can be controlled individually through Control Center or Computer Setup.
NOTE: Refer to Getting to know your computer on page 3 for information on identifying the type and
location of the wireless button on your computer.
Indicates that the wired network is connected and active. If both
wired and wireless connections are active, the operating system
uses the wired connection because it is faster.
Indicates that wired and wireless networks are not connected.
Using the operating system controls
To enable or disable a wireless or wired network device:
1. Right-click the Network Connection icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
2. To enable or disable one of the following devices, select or clear one of the following options:
● Enable Networking (all network devices)
● Enable Wireless
Using an Internet service provider (ISP) 17
Using a WLAN
A wireless connection connects the computer to Wi-Fi networks, or WLANs. A WLAN is composed of
other computers and accessories that are linked by a wireless router or a wireless access point.
NOTE: When creating a wireless connection or allowing access to users in a network, you are
prompted for the root password.
Connecting to an existing WLAN
1. Be sure that the WLAN device is on.
NOTE: Refer to Getting to know your computer on page 3 for information on identifying the
location of the wireless button and wireless light on your computer.
2. Click the Network Connection icon in the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar.
Available wireless networks are listed under Wireless Networks.
3. Click the desired wireless network.
If the network is a security-enabled WLAN, you are prompted to enter a network security code.
Type the code, and then click OK to complete the connection.
NOTE: To connect to a network that is not automatically detected, click the Network
Connection icon and select Connect to Hidden Wireless Network. Enter the ESSID
information, and set encryption parameters.
NOTE: If no WLANs are listed, and your network is not hidden, you are out of range of a
wireless router or access point.
If you do not see the network you want to connect to, right-click the Network Connection icon in
the notification area, at the far right of the taskbar, and click Edit Connections.
Setting up a new WLAN
Required equipment:
A broadband modem (either DSL or cable) (1) and high-speed Internet service purchased from
●
an Internet service provider (ISP)
A wireless router (purchased separately) (2)
●
The wireless computer (3)
●
The illustration below shows an example of a wireless network installation that is connected to the
Internet.
NOTE: Some cable modems include a built-in router. Check with your ISP to see if you need a
separate router.
18 Chapter 3 Networking
NOTE: When setting up a wireless connection, be sure that your computer and wireless router are
synchronized. To synchronize your computer and wireless router, turn your computer and wireless
router off and then back on.
As your network grows, additional wireless and wired computers can be connected to the network to
access the Internet.
For help in setting up your WLAN, refer to the information provided by your router manufacturer or
your ISP.
Protecting your WLAN
When you set up a WLAN or access an existing WLAN, always enable security features to protect
your network from unauthorized access. WLANs in public areas (hotspots) like coffee shops and
airports may not provide any security. If you are concerned about the security of your computer in a
hotspot, limit your network activities to e-mail that is not confidential and basic Internet surfing.
Wireless radio signals travel outside the network, so other WLAN devices can pick up unprotected
signals. You can use the following precautions to protect your WLAN:
Use a Firewall—Checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network, and
●
discards any suspicious items. Firewalls are available in both software and hardware. Some
networks use a combination of both types.
Wireless encryption—Your computer supports three encryption protocols:
●
Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)
◦
Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2)
◦
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP)
◦
NOTE: HP recommends that you select WPA2, which is the most advanced of the three encryption
protocols. The use of WEP encryption is not recommended, because it can be overcome with little
effort.
Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2) use security standards to
●
encrypt and decrypt data transmitted over the network. Both WPA and WPA2 dynamically
generate a new key for every packet, and they also generate a different set of keys for each
computer on the network. To accomplish this:
WPA uses Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and Temporal Key Integrity Protocol
◦
(TKIP).
WPA2 uses Cipher Block Chaining Message Authentication Code Protocol (CCMP), which
◦
is a new AES protocol.
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encrypts data with a WEP key before it is transmitted. Without
●
the correct key, others will not be able to use the WLAN.
Roaming to another network
When you move your computer within range of another WLAN, the operating system attempts to
connect to that network. If the attempt is successful, your computer is automatically connected to the
new network. If the operating system does not recognize the new network, follow the same procedure
you used initially to connect to your WLAN.
Using a WLAN 19
Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only)
A Bluetooth device provides short-range wireless communications that replace the physical cable
connections that traditionally link electronic devices such as the following:
Computers
●
Phones
●
Audio devices
●
The strength of Bluetooth is in synchronizing information transfers between your computer and
wireless devices. The inability to consistently connect two or more computers to share the Internet
through Bluetooth is a limitation of Bluetooth and the operating system.
Bluetooth devices provide peer-to-peer capability that allows you to set up a personal area network
(PAN) of Bluetooth devices. For information on configuring and using Bluetooth devices, refer to the
Bluetooth software Help.
Connecting to a wired network
Using a modem (select models only)
A modem must be connected to an analog telephone line using a 6-pin, RJ-11 modem cable
(purchased separately). In some countries or regions, a specific modem cable adapter is also
required. Jacks for digital PBX systems may resemble analog telephone jacks, but they are not
compatible with the modem.
WARNING! To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or damage to the equipment, do not plug a
modem or telephone cable into the RJ-45 (network) jack.
If the modem cable contains noise suppression circuitry (1), which prevents interference from TV and
radio reception, orient the circuitry end of the cable (2) toward the computer.
Connecting a modem cable
1. Plug the modem cable into the modem jack (1) on the computer.
20 Chapter 3 Networking
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