The Dell D800 laptop computer was built with wireless productivity in mind. Gone are the days when the computer user is tethered to the wall with cords to connect to electrical outlets and broadband connections. Dell Latitude D800 laptops come with extended battery life and built-in WiFi. All that remains is to connect to a wireless network.

If your business already has a wireless network in place, or you're planning to go wireless at your local library or Internet coffee shop, the Dell D800 laptop is ready for WiFi. There's nothing more to do except enjoy the freedom. However, if your home or office isn't WiFi equipped, setting up a network isn't as complicated as you might think.

Some things to consider as you plan your network:

1. Identify the location of the cable or DSL connection and specific range of wireless access before connecting the Dell Latitude D800 notebook computer.

2. If you already have a small network in place, consider adding WiFi only for portable computers such as the Dell D800 laptop and leaving the network wired to desktop computers.

3. Security is much more important with a wireless network because the signal can be intercepted through the air by anyone who comes within its range.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase a wireless router and other necessary hardware

If you already have a wired network, or one desktop computer, purchase a wireless router. Your existing wired network can stay connected and you can add a router to provide wireless access to the Dell Latitude D800 notebook.

I recommend: Purchase a router from SENA Technologies or have SupportSoft, Inc. set up your network for you.

Keep your wireless network secure

With a wired network, data is being exchanged through cables. Once you go wireless your data is being transmitted through the air from your router to your Dell D800 laptop computer and back again. Anyone within the range of the signal could have access to it. There are ways to secure your network for authorized personnel access.

I recommend: Learn more about wireless security with an online tutorial at GetNetWise. Request a free DVD and software about Internet usage and your network at FaceTime.

Share files and printers between your Dell Latitude D800 notebook and other networked computers

It's possible to set up a WiFi connection that allows your Dell Latitude D800 notebook computer to share the broadband Internet connection with the other computers on the network. However, once you've done the hard work of obtaining the necessary hardware to have a true network, make your office more productive by configuring the network to share files and printers.

I recommend: Share files between home and your business office with Network Magic. Offers free 7 day trial and download version in one click.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Improve the performance of your laptop. Buy Dell Latitude D800 memory chips from the link below.