Set Up Network Connections in Microsoft Windows XP

Open the Network Connections Menu

As in previous versions of Windows, Windows XP provides a wizard for network connection setup. Wizards break down a task into individual steps and guide the user through the steps one at a time.

The Windows XP New Connection Wizard supports two basic types of Internet connections -broadband and dialup. It also supports several types of private connection setup includingvirtual private networking (VPN).

To access the network connection setup wizard in Windows XP, navigate through the Start menu to the Connect To and Show all connections options as shown. The same feature is also accessible via the Network Connections icon in Control Panel (not shown). Click either of these options to continue.

Create a New Connection (Network Task menu)

Opening the Network Connections menu causes a new window to appear on the desktop as shown. The right-hand side of this window displays icons for any pre-existing connections. On the left, the Create a new connection option allows new connections to be set up. Click this option to continue.

Start New Connection Wizard

The Windows XP New Connection Wizard supports setting up the following types of network connections:

• broadband (including PPPoE)
• VPN
• modem dialup
• serial port
• parallel port
• infrared

Click Next to continue.

Select Network Connection Type

The Network Connection Type menu presents three choices for Internet and private network setup:

• The Connect to the Internet option supports several types of Internet connection setup. This option allows the user to choose from a list of Internet Service Providers (ISPs), use a setup CD-ROM provided by their ISP, or set up a connection manually.
  
• Connect to the network at my workplace supports client-side set up of both dialup remote access and VPN services.
  
• The Set up an advanced connection option supports serial, parallel and infrared port networking setups. This option also allows the user to enable certain types of incoming network connections.

Select an option and click Next to continue.

• Connect to the Internet
• Connect to the network at my workplace - Virtual Private Network
• Connect to the network at my workplace - general (microsoft.com)
• Set up an advanced connection (support.microsoft.com)

----Nishad S S