A while back when I was using Windows XP I remember there was this really neat feature in windows where I could enter all the information needed in order for a computer to connect to my wireless network and it was saved onto a USB memory stick. I could then put the memory stick in another computer and that computer could then connect to my network without having to enter WEP keys or other info.
I'm now using Windows Vista Ultimate and would like to be able to create a config file on a USB stick like this again so that when family or friends come over they can be online quickly and easily. How can I create this type of config file and will it work in both Vista and XP?
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I did just get a new router. I'll try the WPA encryption and see how easy it is. If it's as easy as entering a password then I would have to agree that's a lot easier than even pulling out a memory stick. I'm just not sure that all my devices will support WPA.
Thanks for your help, I'll let you know.
I was using WPA on XP SP1 for a couple months so it should work just fine as long as your not missing any important updates, which If you have a SP 1 or 2 install disk you shouldn't be. And as RobWill said WPA is considerably safer and easier to set up as you litterly just enter a passcode and your set.
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by: RobWillPosted on 2008-10-14 at 16:01:13ID: 22716792
That was likely the "Wireless Network set Up Wizard" in XP you are referring to :
http://www.microsoft.com/w
To the best of my knowledge there is nothing similar with Vista, but you can use the USB key from XP to set up the Vista PC:
http://ecross.mvps.org/how
However, WEP encryption is considered very insecure and "old" technology now. Does your router support WPA encryption? If not perhaps a firmware upgrade will add the feature. WPA is ideal for guests as their PC will automatically see your network/router/SSID and be prompted for a password. They simply enter the password and they can connect. No more setting of key#'s long WEP keys, channels and such, and it is much more secure. Both Vista and XP support WPA so long as the network adapter is not too old.