How To Connect Wifi To A Gaming Pc
So, you’ve got a gaming PC and you’re wondering how to connect it to the wifi network? It’s actually quite simple. All you need to do is equip your PC with the right hardware and software, and follow a few easy steps. In this guide, we’ll show you how.
First, you need to purchase a wifi adapter. The adapters come in various types, so you’ll have to check the compatibility of the one you’re buying with your machine. Most gaming PCs have a USB port, so if your machine has one, go for a USB adapter.
Next, plug in the adapter and install the software that came with it. It’s advisable to use the manufacturer’s software as it is purpose-built and tested. Once you’ve installed the software, reboot the PC and you should see it in the ‘Device Manager’ section of Windows.
Lastly, get the passwords and login details of the wifi network you’re trying to connect to and input them into the software. If you’ve entered everything correctly, you should now be connected to the wifi. You can test it out by opening a web browser and checking the internet connection.
Using a Wireless Router
Connecting a gaming PC to a wireless router is another simple procedure. First, you need to plug the router into the power source and connect the modem (if required). Then, turn the router on and wait for the LED lights to stabilize. You may need to consult the user manual for this step, as the lights indicate the router’s status.
Next, download the software that came with the router, if any. If not, connect the router to your PC using an Ethernet cable and the computer’s web browser will open the router’s home page. If the router has a software disc, install it on the PC and configure the router accordingly. Once all the settings are done, reboot the PC, connect the wifi adapter, and follow all the steps of the previous section, to connect to the network.
It’s also important to update the router’s firmware regularly, to ensure security. You can do this from the router’s home page, or from the manufacturer’s website. Generally, you’ll receive a notification when a new firmware is available, and patching is pretty simple.
You may have to configure firewall and security settings to the router for an extra layer of protection. Check the router’s user manual for these settings.
Using a Network Card
If your gaming PC has a network card already installed, you can skip the wifi adapter and use it directly. In that case, all you need to do is find the network name (SSID) of the network you’re connecting to, enter the password and you should be connected.
However, if your gaming PC doesn’t have a network card, you need to install one. First, purchase a compatible card, and then install it in the PC. Make sure you turn the PC off and unplug it before opening it up, to avoid any electric shocks. Then, connect the network card to the PC’s main board, and to the PC’s power supply.
Once the card is in place, all that’s left is to boot up the PC and follow the steps of the first section, to connect to a wifi network. Some network cards come with software, which you must install before connecting to the wifi.
Using a LAN Cable
If you’d rather use a physical connection, you can use a LAN (RJ45) cable to connect your gaming PC to the wifi router. All you need is a long enough cable, and a LAN port (occasionally called an Ethernet port) in your PC.
Once you have the right cable, plug one end into the router and the other end into the PC’s port. Then, open the web browser in the PC and search for the router’s main page, like you would with a wireless connection. Once you’re on the page, you can enter the security details — such as the username and password — to connect to the internet.
However, one disadvantage of a physical connection is that the PC must stay close to the router. If you’re looking for the freedom of a wireless connection, the first two sections should give you the resources you need.
Other Solutions
Apart from the last three methods, you can also connect to a wifi network using a USB network card or an M.2 network card. The installation and connection process of these adapters is the same as a traditional wifi adapter, but they’re more powerful and usually more expensive.
Also, if your PC doesn’t have a USB or Ethernet connection, you can also connect with a wireless bridge. This can also be used in tandem with the previously discussed methods. To use a bridge, you have to connect the bridge to the router, and the router to the PC’s wireless adapter. You can also set up a safe wireless connection with a wireless repeater (or extender) device.
Finally, if all four solutions are out of your reach, or if the signal is too weak, you can also purchase a high-gain antenna and connect it to your PC. These antennas have longer reach and help in maintaining signal quality in areas with weak signal strength.
