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ScottInTexas
08-30-2009, 02:07 PM
There is some super-secret setting on my laptop that I cannot find regarding wireless connections. Probably based on my lack of understanding of the protocols.

At home on my wireless router I use WEP to prevent unauthorized users. In some courthouses where I work it is open and in some of the motels I have to stay in it can be either. Lately, in the last month or so, I can see the available networks but when I click on one to connect it may try for several minutes then either times out or spends the rest of the evening trying to acquire a network address. In many cases I can even browse and stream while it says it is trying to get an address.

I have tried using Dell's connection to handle it and Microsoft's. It is the same in both cases. Also, if I do connect the signal strength magically drops immediately from excellent to mediocre. I do not remember ever messing with any settings that may affect connecting, but I must have done something.

noneforit
08-30-2009, 06:26 PM
I would reccommend updating the drivers for your wireless card. Go to the Dell support website, search for your model and download the latest driver.

Failing that, try a usb wireless adapter (if you have one) and see if that connects better. If it does then its like a problem with the internal wireless card itself. If not, it could be a software issue.

Also please please please change from WEP to WPA (WPA2 if you can). WEP can be cracked in as little as 3 seconds with software readily available on the internet. There are guides on youtube on how to crack it!!