You need to have a Network Card (called a "Wireless NIC") installed in your computer to use ResNet. Most newer PCs and laptops come with a Wireless NIC already installed.  A Wireless NIC looks like a phone jack, but is slightly larger.  Do not mistake your computer's modem jack as your Wireless NIC... a computer modem will not work on ResNet!

If you already have a Wireless NIC installed, please continue on.  Otherwise...

Before you can connect to ResNet your computer will need to have an Ethernet card installed.  If you are experienced and confident with installing new hardware in your computer, or know someone who is, you may choose to install and configure your card yourself.  There are also computer service companies which will install your card for a nominal fee. ResNet staff cannot help you install the Ethernet card.

If you need to purchase a Wireless NIC, most desktop computers require a "PCI" version.  Also make sure the Wireless NIC supports 10/100Mbps connections.
Most laptops require a PCMCIA Wireless NIC.  Again, make sure the Wireless NIC supports 10/100Mbps connections.

There are a number of "USB" or External Wireless NICs.  These types of adapters will work with ResNet, but are sometimes less reliable or harder to configure than internal (PCI/PCMCIA) versions.

For your convenience, the ResNet staff has developed the following Windows desktop computer Ethernet card installation instructions.  The ResNet staff cannot be responsible for any damage you cause to your computer -- You follow these instructions at your own risk.  For each step, consult the manual that came with your computer and Wireless NIC for specific instructions.

• Shut down your computer and disconnect all cables that are attached to it.
   
• Remove the cover from your computer.  Once you open the case, be aware that there is risk of damage to your computer through static electricity.  To avoid damaging computer components, always use an anti-static wrist band when performing ANY hardware upgrade.
   
• Once you have removed the cover of your computer, you need to find an available slot for your Ethernet card.  This will depend on the type of Ethernet card you have.

• The slots are typically located towards the back of the computer, where the external cables attach.  In most cases, there will already be some cards present, but there should be empty slots as well.  You will probably have to remove a small strip of metal that covers the opening of the slot on the back of the computer.  This usually involves removing a single screw.
   
• Remove the Ethernet card from its bag or box.  Gently but securely insert the card into the appropriate slot.  Once the card is securely in the slot, replace the screw that you removed from that slot, and replace the computer's cover.  Reconnect all cables and start the computer.
   
• If your Ethernet card and computer are Plug & Play compatible, your computer should automatically detect the card when it is booted.  It may prompt you for a driver disk.  If your card or computer does not support Plug & Play, you will have to install the needed driver yourself.

Next you will need to install and configure your Ethernet card driver.  Click here to proceed to Step #2.