How it Works
HP
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ProBook 4446s
User Manual
100 pgs4.49 Mb0
User Manual
110 pgs4.59 Mb0
Table of contents
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HP ProBook 4446s User Manual

HP Notebook
User Guide
© Copyright 2012 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.
First Edition: May 2012
Document Part Number: 678746-001
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 ....................................................................................................................................................... 3
TouchPad ............................................................................................................................ 3
Lights ................................................................................................................................... 4
Buttons speakers, and fingerprint reader (select models only) ............................................ 6
Keys ..................................................................................................................................... 9
Front ................................................................................................................................................... 11
Right ................................................................................................................................................... 12
Left ..................................................................................................................................................... 13
Display ................................................................................................................................................ 14
Bottom ................................................................................................................................................ 16
Identifying the bottom parts of the computer ...................................................................................... 17
3 Networking .................................................................................................................................................... 19
Using an Internet service provider (ISP) ............................................................................................ 19
Identifying wireless and network status icons .................................................................................... 19
Creating a wireless connection .......................................................................................................... 19
Turning wireless devices on and off .................................................................................. 19
Using the wireless button .................................................................................. 19
Using the operating system controls ................................................................. 20
Using a WLAN .................................................................................................................................... 20
Connecting to an existing WLAN ....................................................................................... 20
Setting up a new WLAN ..................................................................................................... 21
Protecting your WLAN ....................................................................................................... 21
Roaming to another network .............................................................................................. 22
Using Bluetooth wireless devices (select models only) ...................................................................... 22
Connecting to a wired network ........................................................................................................... 22
Connecting to a local area network (LAN) (select models only) ........................................ 22
4 Keyboard and pointing devices ................................................................................................................... 24
Using the keyboard ............................................................................................................................ 24
Identifying the hotkeys ....................................................................................................... 24
Using keypads ................................................................................................................... 25
v
Using the embedded numeric keypad (select models only) .............................. 25
Turning the embedded numeric keypad on and off .......................... 25
Switching key functions on the embedded numeric keypad ............. 26
Using the integrated numeric keypad (select models only) ............................... 26
Using an optional external numeric keypad ...................................................... 26
Using the TouchPad ........................................................................................................................... 26
Turning the TouchPad off and on ...................................................................................... 26
Navigating .......................................................................................................................... 27
Selecting ............................................................................................................................ 27
Using TouchPad gestures ................................................................................................. 27
Scrolling ............................................................................................................ 29
Pinching/Zooming ............................................................................................. 29
Setting pointing device preferences ................................................................................... 29
5 Multimedia ..................................................................................................................................................... 30
Using the audio features .................................................................................................................... 30
Adjusting the volume ......................................................................................................... 30
Checking your audio functions ........................................................................................... 31
Using the Webcam (select models only) ............................................................................................ 31
Using video devices ........................................................................................................................... 31
VGA ................................................................................................................................... 31
HDMI .................................................................................................................................. 34
Configuring audio for HDMI ............................................................................... 34
6 Power management ...................................................................................................................................... 35
Shutting down the computer ............................................................................................................... 35
Setting power options ......................................................................................................................... 35
Using power-saving states ................................................................................................. 35
Initiating and exiting Suspend ........................................................................... 36
Initiating and exiting Hibernation ....................................................................... 36
Using the Power icon ......................................................................................................... 36
Using power management ................................................................................................. 36
Viewing the current power management settings ............................................. 37
Changing the current power management settings .......................................... 37
Using battery power ........................................................................................................................... 37
Displaying the remaining battery charge ........................................................................... 37
Inserting or removing the battery ....................................................................................... 37
Charging a battery ............................................................................................................. 39
Maximizing battery life ....................................................................................................... 40
Managing low battery levels .............................................................................................. 40
Identifying low battery levels ............................................................................. 40
vi
Resolving a low battery level ............................................................................. 41
Resolving a low battery level when external power is available ....... 41
Resolving a low battery level when a charged battery is available ... 41
Resolving a low battery level when no power source is available .... 41
Resolving a low battery level when the computer cannot exit
Hibernation ....................................................................................... 41
Conserving battery power .................................................................................................. 41
Storing a battery ................................................................................................................ 41
Disposing of a used battery ............................................................................................... 42
Replacing the battery ......................................................................................................... 42
Using external AC power .................................................................................................................... 42
Testing an AC adapter ....................................................................................................... 42
7 Drives ............................................................................................................................................................. 44
Handling drives ................................................................................................................................... 44
Using the optional security screw ....................................................................................................... 44
Removing or replacing the service door ............................................................................................. 45
Removing the service door ................................................................................................ 45
Replacing the service door ................................................................................................ 46
Replacing or upgrading the hard drive ............................................................................................... 47
Removing the hard drive .................................................................................................... 47
Installing a hard drive ......................................................................................................... 49
Using optical drives (select models only) ........................................................................................... 50
Identifying the installed optical drive .................................................................................. 50
Inserting an optical disc ..................................................................................................... 50
Tray-load ........................................................................................................... 50
Removing an optical disc ................................................................................................... 50
Tray-load ........................................................................................................... 50
When the disc tray opens normally .................................................. 50
When the disc tray fails to open ....................................................... 51
8 External cards and devices .......................................................................................................................... 53
Using Media Card Reader cards (select models only) ....................................................................... 53
Inserting a digital card ........................................................................................................ 53
Removing a digital card ..................................................................................................... 53
Using a USB device ........................................................................................................................... 54
Connecting a USB device .................................................................................................. 55
Removing a USB device .................................................................................................... 55
Using optional external devices .......................................................................................................... 55
Using optional external drives ............................................................................................ 56
vii
9 Memory modules .......................................................................................................................................... 57
10 Security ........................................................................................................................................................ 60
Protecting the computer ..................................................................................................................... 60
Using passwords ................................................................................................................................ 60
Setting passwords in the operating system ....................................................................... 61
Setting passwords in Computer Setup .............................................................................. 61
Managing a BIOS administrator password ........................................................ 62
Entering a BIOS administrator password .......................................................... 62
Using a Computer Setup DriveLock password ................................................. 62
Managing a DriveLock password ...................................................................... 63
Entering a DriveLock password ........................................................................ 63
Using Computer Setup Automatic DriveLock ..................................................................................... 63
Managing an Automatic DriveLock password .................................................................... 63
Using firewall software ....................................................................................................................... 63
Installing an optional security cable .................................................................................................... 64
Using the fingerprint reader (select models only) ............................................................................... 65
Enabling fingerprint authentication during logon ................................................................ 65
Enrolling your fingerprint .................................................................................................... 65
11 Backup and Recovery ................................................................................................................................ 67
Performing a system recovery ............................................................................................................ 67
Backing up your information ............................................................................................................... 68
12 Computer Setup (BIOS) and Advanced System Diagnostics ................................................................. 69
Starting Computer Setup .................................................................................................................... 69
Using Computer Setup ....................................................................................................................... 69
Navigating and selecting in Computer Setup ..................................................................... 69
Restoring factory settings in Computer Setup ................................................................... 70
Updating the BIOS ............................................................................................................................. 70
Determining the BIOS version ........................................................................................... 70
Downloading a BIOS update ............................................................................................. 71
Using Advanced System Diagnostics ................................................................................................. 72
13 MultiBoot ..................................................................................................................................................... 73
About the boot device order ............................................................................................................... 73
Enabling boot devices in Computer Setup ......................................................................................... 74
Considering boot order changes ........................................................................................................ 74
Choosing MultiBoot preferences ........................................................................................................ 75
Setting a new boot order in Computer Setup ..................................................................... 75
viii
Dynamically choosing a boot device using the f9 prompt .................................................. 76
Setting a MultiBoot Express prompt .................................................................................. 76
Entering MultiBoot Express preferences ........................................................................... 76
Appendix A Troubleshooting and support .................................................................................................... 77
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................. 77
The computer is unable to start up .................................................................................... 77
The computer screen is blank ............................................................................................ 77
Software is functioning abnormally .................................................................................... 77
The computer is on but is not responding .......................................................................... 77
The computer is unusually warm ....................................................................................... 78
An external device is not working ...................................................................................... 78
The wireless network connection is not working ................................................................ 78
The optical disc tray does not open for removal of a CD or DVD ...................................... 79
The computer does not detect the optical drive ................................................................. 80
A disc does not play ........................................................................................................... 80
A movie is not visible on an external display ..................................................................... 80
The process of burning a disc does not begin, or it stops before completion .................... 81
Contacting support ............................................................................................................................. 81
Labels ................................................................................................................................................. 82
Appendix B Cleaning your computer ............................................................................................................. 83
Cleaning products .............................................................................................................................. 83
Cleaning procedures .......................................................................................................................... 83
Cleaning the display .......................................................................................................... 83
Cleaning the sides and cover ............................................................................................ 83
Cleaning the TouchPad and keyboard .............................................................................. 84
Appendix C Specifications .............................................................................................................................. 85
Input power ......................................................................................................................................... 85
Operating environment ....................................................................................................................... 85
Appendix D Electrostatic discharge .............................................................................................................. 86
Index ................................................................................................................................................................... 87
ix
x

1 Welcome

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 19.
● Get to know your computer—Learn about your computer features. Refer to
your computer on page 3 and Keyboard and pointing devices on page 24 for additional
information.
Find installed software—Access a list of the software preinstalled on the computer. Select
●
Computer > More Applications.
NOTE: For details about using the software included with the computer, select Computer >
Help. You can also see 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 ● Setting up the computer
● Identifying computer components
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 –
http://www.hp.com/ergo.
Go to
Worldwide Telephone Numbers booklet
This booklet is provided with your computer.
HP Web site
To access this Web site, go to
support.
http://www.hp.com/
● 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
Ordering parts and finding additional help
●
● Software, driver, and BIOS updates
● Accessories available for the device
Limited Warranty*
To access the warranty:
Double-click the HP Documents icon located on the desktop.
– or –
http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments.
Go to
*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 from
● 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
When you request a printed copy of your warranty, please include your product number, warranty period (found on your service label), name, and postal address.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT return your HP product to the addresses above. For U.S. product support, go to
go/contactHP. For worldwide product support, go to http://welcome.hp.com/country/us/en/wwcontact_us.html.
2 Chapter 1 Welcome
Warranty information
http://www.hp.com/go/orderdocuments or write to:
http://www.hp.com/

2 Getting to know your computer

Top

TouchPad

NOTE: Your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.
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.
Top 3

Lights

NOTE: Refer to the illustration that most closely matches your computer.
Component Description
(1)
(2) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on.
(3)
(4)
(5) TouchPad light
Power light ● On: The computer is on.
● Blinking: The computer is in the Suspend state.
Off: The computer is off or in Hibernation.
●
Web browser light ● On: The computer is on.
Off: The computer is off, in the Suspend state, or in
●
Hibernation.
Wireless light ● 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.
Amber: The TouchPad is off.
●
● Off: The TouchPad is on.
4 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
(1)
(2) Caps lock light On: Caps lock is on.
(3)
(4)
(5) TouchPad light ● Amber: The TouchPad is off.
Power light
Web browser 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.
● 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.
Off: The TouchPad is on.
●
Top 5

Buttons speakers, and fingerprint reader (select models only)

NOTE: Refer to the illustration that most closely matches your computer.
Component Description
(1)
(2) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
(3)
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.
CAUTION: Emergency shutdown procedures result in the
loss of unsaved information.
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.
Web browser button (select models only) Opens the default Web browser.
6 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
(4)
(5) Fingerprint reader (select models only) Allows a fingerprint logon to the operating system, instead of
Wireless button Turns the wireless feature on or off but does not establish a
wireless connection.
NOTE: A wireless connection may be established if one
has been previously configured.
a password logon.
Top 7
Component Description
(1)
(2) Speakers (2) Produce sound.
(3)
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.
CAUTION: Emergency shutdown procedures result in the
loss of unsaved information.
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.
Web browser button (select models only) Opens the default Web browser.
(4)
(5) Fingerprint reader (select models only) Allows a fingerprint logon to the operating system, instead of
Wireless button Turns the wireless feature on or off but does not establish a
wireless connection.
NOTE: A wireless connection may be established if one has
been previously configured.
a password logon.
8 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer

Keys

NOTE: Refer to the illustration that most closely matches your computer.
Component Description
(1) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed
in combination with a function key.
(2)
(3) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in
(4) Embedded numeric keypad keys Can be used like the keys on an external numeric keypad
(5)
(6) num lk key Turns the embedded numeric keypad on and off when
Operating system logo key Displays the operating system menu.
combination with the fn key. For more information, see
Keyboard and pointing devices on page 24
when pressed in combination with the fn and num lk keys.
Each key on the keypad performs the function indicated by the icon in the upper-right corner of the key.
Operating system applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.
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.
Top 9
Component Description
(1) fn key Executes frequently used system functions when pressed
in combination with a function key.
(2)
(3) Function keys Execute frequently used system functions when pressed in
(4)
(5) num lk key Alternates between the navigational and numeric functions
(6) Integrated numeric keypad Can be used like an external numeric keypad.
Operating system logo key Displays the operating system menu.
combination with the fn key. For more information, see
Keyboard and pointing devices on page 24
Operating system applications key Displays a shortcut menu for items beneath the cursor.
on the integrated numeric keypad.
NOTE: The keypad function that is active when the
computer is turned off is reinstated when the computer is turned back on.
10 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer

Front

Component Description
(1)
(2) Media Card Reader Supports the following digital card formats:
(3)
Hard drive light ● Blinking white: The hard drive or optical drive is being
Audio-out (headphone) jack Connects optional powered stereo speakers, headphones,
accessed.
● Amber: HP 3D DriveGuard has temporarily parked
the hard drive.
● Memory Stick PRO
● Memory Stick PRO Duo (needs an adapter)
● MultiMediaCard (MMC)
● MultiMediaCardPlus (MMC+)
Secure Digital (SD) Card
●
Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Card
●
● Secure Digital Extra Capacity (SDXC) Card
earbuds, a headset, or a television audio cable.
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,
stereo array microphone, or monaural microphone.
Front 11

Right

Component Description
(1)
(2) Optical drive (select models only) Reads an optical disc.
(3) Optical drive light (select models only) Lights when the optical drive is active.
(4) Optical drive eject button (select models
USB 2.0 port Connect an optional USB device.
NOTE: On select models, the optical drive also
writes to an optical disc.
Releases the optical drive disc tray.
only)
12 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer

Left

Component Description
(1)
(2) Power connector Connects an AC adapter.
(3)
(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.
AC adapter/battery light
External monitor port Connects an external VGA monitor or projector.
Amber: The computer is connected to external
●
power and the battery is charged from 0 to 90 percent.
● White: The computer is connected to external power
and the battery is charged from 90 to 99 percent.
● 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-definition television, or any compatible digital or audio component.
USB 3.0 ports (2) Connect an optional USB device.
Left 13

Display

NOTE: Refer to the illustration that most closely matches your computer.
Component Description
(1) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
(2) Internal microphone(s} (1 or 2 depending on
model)
(3) Webcam light (select models only) On: The webcam is in use.
(4) Webcam (select models only) Records video and captures still photographs.
(5) Internal display switch Turns off the display or initiates Suspend if the display is closed
*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.
local area networks (WLAN).
Record sound.
while the power is on.
NOTE: The display switch is not visible from the outside of the
computer.
14 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
(1) WLAN antennas (2)* Send and receive wireless signals to communicate with wireless
(2) Internal microphone(s) (1 or 2 depending on
model)
(3) Webcam light (select models only) On: The webcam is in use.
(4) Webcam (select models only) Records video and captures still photographs.
(5) Internal display switch Turns off the display or initiates Suspend if the display is closed
*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.
local area networks (WLAN).
Record sound.
while the power is on.
NOTE: The display switch is not visible from the outside of the
computer.
Display 15

Bottom

NOTE: Your computer may look slightly different from the illustration in this section.
Component Description
(1)
(2) Battery bay Holds the battery.
Battery and service door release latches
● Releases the battery from the battery bay by
sliding the release latches one time.
● When the battery has been removed from the
battery bay, releases the service door from the computer by sliding the release latches a second time.
16 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
Component Description
(3)
(4) Vents (2) Enable airflow to cool internal components.
Service door Protects the hard drive bay, the wireless LAN
(WLAN) module slot, and the memory module slots.
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 through Linux Help.
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.

Identifying the bottom parts of the computer

NOTE: The service door has been removed in the following illustration.
The following table identifies the bottom parts of the computer.
Component Description
(1)
Memory modules
Identifying the bottom parts of the computer 17
Component Description
(2)
(3)
Hard drive
WLAN module slot (select models only)
18 Chapter 2 Getting to know your computer
3Networking
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 20 or Setting up a new WLAN on page 21.
● 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 22.

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.
Connecting
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.
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 an Internet service provider (ISP) 19
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.
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 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.
20 Chapter 3 Networking
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