How to connect a Vista computer to a wireless network using WLAN AutoConfig

This document will serve as a guide for Microsoft Vista clients in joining a wireless network using WLAN AutoConfig service.

What is WZC or WLAN AutoConfig?

Wireless Zero Configuration was first introduced with Windows XP.  In Windows Vista it was renamed to "WLAN AutoConfig". 

Wireless Zero Configuration (WZC) or WLAN AutoConfig is a service included with modern versions of Microsoft Windows that dynamically selects a wireless network to connect to base on a user's preferences and various settings.  This can be used instead (or in the absence) of a wireless network utility from the manufacturer of a computer's wireless networking device.

To join a wireless network:

1. Open the Start menu and click Control Panel.
2. In the Control Panel Home window, click View network status and tasks.
   
   If you are using Classic View, double- click Network and Sharing Center.
   
3. Click Connect to a network.
   
4. Select your network from the list and click Connect.
   
5. If security is enabled on the network, you will be asked to type your network security key or passphrase for your AP/router.  After typing security key, click Connect.
   
   Note:    For 64 bit WEP security – enter the 10 Hexadecimal digits from AP/router.
                For 128 bit WEP security – enter the 26 Hexadecimal digits from AP/router
                For WPA or WPA2 security – enter the passphrase from AP/router.
6. After typing the correct security key, you should be connected to your router. Click Close.
   
7. You can select a location profile for your network or skip it by clicking Cancel.
   
8. You are now ready to connect to the Internet.
   

n101692.asp Jul 26, 2007