Just like a house key is keyed, literally designed to only open one lock, so is a wireless network security password intended to just open up one door, one access point to the Internet. If you don't have my house key, you can't unlock my front door, and similarly, if you don't have my WEP key, you cannot use my wireless network access point.
Let me say that a different way too: if you are trying to use someone's wireless Internet (or "wifi") access point and don't have their password key, whether they're using WEP or WPA security, you will not be able to connect successfully and go online.
The only way around this is to figure out whose access point it is and ask them for their password, if they'll give it to you. If they won't, or if it's that mean guy from across the hall or down the street, you're out of luck and will need to set up your own access point!
With wireless technology, your network can be seen from any computer within range. A WEP key is a password for your "wifi". Therefore, if there is a computer in range the only way that computer can connect is with the WEP key. If you do not have a WEP key on your network, your internet and all your files can be seen by anyone. WEP is not the only way to secure your wireless, there is also WPA which is different way to encrypt your wireless. WPA is also secure however WEP is the easiest to manage.
The Tech Zone can help you setting up a "WiFi" environment at home if you already have cabled internet connection or if you want to extend your wireless signal through your household or company!!
We carry the best wireless network routers available in the Market supported by Linksys (Consumer side of CISCO Networks) or Cisco routers if you are looking for one at your Office.
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The WEP key is controlled by your wireless router. To view or change your WEP key you need to be logged into your router. To do this:
Click onthe start menu
Click on Run
On the “Open” text box, type in “cmd” (without the quotation marks) and click on ok.
In the black windows, type in “ipconfig” (without the quotation marks) and hit the “Enter” button.
You should see 3 lines come up. Similar tothis:
IP address..........................................: 192.168.50.101
Subnet Mask......................................: 255.255.255.0
Default Gateway.................................: 192.168.50.1
The Default Gateway is your router.
Open up your web browser, such as Internet Explorer or Firefox.
In the address bar type in the number that appears as the gateway.
Type in your user name and password and it will all be under security.
If you have any problems with using your router please contact your router manufacturer before calling The Tech Zone.
For a Dlink router, the manuals for your router can be found here and for a Linksys router you can find them here.
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