This wireless quick setup guide explains how to connect your computer to a wireless (WiFi) network using the network Name (SSID) and Pre-shared Key/Passphrase (i.e., password), including instructions for Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 and 10, and Apple OS X.
To learn how to connect to the Internet on your computer, select your operating system from the list below and follow the instructions to connect to your wireless network.
Video Guide: Setting up your wireless modem
If you have a new wireless modem, before you begin setting up WiFi on your computer, you will need to ensure that:
- The modem is connected to both coaxial and power connections and that the Online light is lit on the front of the modem. (Visit the Glossary of cables and connections for details.)
- You have the default SSID and Pre-shared Key/Passphrase. (You can find the default SSID and Pre-shared Key/Passphrase on a sticker affixed to your wireless modem, highlighted below.)
If you have customized the SSID and/or Pre-shared Key/Passphrase on your wireless router, use your customized credentials when requested. If you have forgotten your customized Pre-shared Key/Passphrase and need to reset your modem, please click here for further directions.
Watch this video for a visual guide to setting up your wireless modem:
Video Tutorial: How to set up your wireless devices to WiFi
For general information on your WiFi modem, please visit Shaw Internet Modems - Equipment Guide. If you need help setting up your third-party WiFi router, visit the How to set up a third party WiFi router page.
Windows 8 and 10
Connect to the Internet on your Windows 8 or 10 computer by following these instructions:
- Ensure that the wireless capability of your computer is enabled, and then click on the network connection icon that is present in the notification area in the lower right corner of your screen (highlighted below).
- A sidebar will appear and present a list of the locally available networks within range of your computer. The unique name for your wireless network (SSID) will be listed here. Select your SSID as it is listed on-screen (which should be highlighted). Finally, click Connect from the expanded menu (highlighted below, right).
- You will be prompted to enter a password (Pre-shared Key/Passphrase) to connect to your network. Enter it and then click Next.
- After a short period, you should see Connected appear next to the listing for your network, indicating your connection is now ready for use.
Windows 7
Learn how to set up WiFi on Windows 7 computer by following the instructions below.
- Ensure that the wireless capability of your computer is enabled, then click on the network connection icon that is present in the notification area in the lower right corner of your screen (highlighted below).
- A new window will appear and present a list of the locally available networks within range of your computer. The unique name for your wireless network (SSID) will be listed here. Select your SSID as it is listed on-screen (which should be highlighted) and click Connect at the bottom of the window (highlighted below).
- You will be prompted to enter a password (Pre-shared Key/Passphrase) to connect to your network. Enter it into the Security key field and click Connect (highlighted below).
- After a short period, your connection will be active.
Windows Vista
To connect your Windows Vista computer to an available wireless network, follow these steps:
- Click Start.
- Choose Connect To from the start menu (highlighted below).
- A new window will appear and present a list of the locally available networks within range of your computer. The unique name for your wireless network (SSID) will be listed here. Select your SSID as it is listed on-screen (which should be highlighted) and click Connect at the bottom of the window (highlighted below).
- You will be prompted to enter a password (Pre-shared Key/Passphrase) to connect to your network. Enter it and click Connect.
- After a short period, you will see a pop-up notification confirming that you are connected.
Windows XP
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Providing your Windows XP has been updated to the latest version, WiFi setup on your computer is simple.
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Apple OS X
Continue reading to configure WiFi on your Apple OS X computer.
- Ensure that your wireless capability is enabled by clicking on the AirPort icon in the menu bar at the top of the screen and selecting Turn WiFi On (highlighted below).
- Once wireless is enabled, the same AirPort menu will display a list of available wireless networks within range of your Mac. The unique name for your wireless network (SSID) will be listed here. Identify your SSID from the menu and click on it to connect (highlighted below).
- You will be prompted to enter a password (Pre-shared Key/Passphrase) to connect to your network. Enter it and then click Connect.
- After a short period, your connection will be active. Your active connection can be identified by a checkmark next to your wireless network (highlighted above).
Related: How to set up email in Apple macOS Mail