Wireless network encrypting???

[muppie]

I have two Dell notebooks and a Dell desktop, all which run Windows XP. My computers are networked. I have a Dell 1184 Wireless Broadband Router - WX6215D. How do I secure this network?
On the back of the router, there are directions that say to open Internet Explorer and type in "my router" as the address. This just gets me to a search page - not the pop-up window described in the directions. (Yes, I turned off my pop-up blockers.)
I really need some simple directions.
Thanks - in advance - for your help!

[bAdWaYz]

To access the routers config area you need to type the routers ip address into the browser. For example 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 depending on your router. Once in the config area you will see tabs for different options. More than likely under the "wireless" tab or "security" you will see a place to enable and enter a WEP or WPA key. I will do some looking around the net and try to find a nice pdf or such for you. If any of our members or mod's can pitch in feel free.

[30111987]

you may find it is already secured, if service pack 2 is allowed to run your network (rather than third party software) it will try and force you to use wpa

[muppie]

Thanks for the two responses!

I do have service pack 2 - but when I view my network from the control panel - it says that is is open and unsecured.

I tried the numbers you gave - but I keep getting "page can not be displayed". I looked at the properties of my network - my desktop had an IP address of 192.168.2.4 and my one notebook has 192.168.2.3

(The desktop is not wireless.)

I am really lost about what to do.

Thanks!

muppie

[Hingie]

Try 192.168.2.1 or 192.168.2.2

[bAdWaYz]

yep based on the ip's in your network 192.168.2.1 should work

[muppie]

Thanks - the number worked - but now what do I do now?

Do I check 30(64) Bit or 128 Bit - and then what Key? Do I just choose default key 1 (with the 40(64) or do I need to put in something special?

I really appreciate your help!

Muppie

[bAdWaYz]

Well what does your wi-fi adaptor support? Some will support only 64bit while others will do both 64 and 128 bit. They key can be anything you want it to be just be sure and write it down. You will need to enter that key into your laptop when asked for the WEP key.