If you use a pre-shared key with XP you connect before authentication. Vista fixed this.
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Browse All TopicsWireless Zero Configuration in XP. Are you connected to the Wireless Access Point prior to Windows authentication and if no, what is an alternative to it? Doeas Vista offer the same service?
Thanks,
JPertchik
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XP:
Right Click Network Places | Click Properties
Right Click your wireless interface | Click Properties
Click the Wireless Networks tab
Click Add
Enter the SSID
Select WPA2-PSK (recommended)
Select AES
Enter the Key (twice)
Check the "Connect even if this network isn't broadcasting" box
Click OK
Click Ok
Vista:
Click on Start and select Connect To:
In the Select a network to connect to window, click Setup up
a connection or network on the lower left hand side of the
window.
In the Choose a connection option window, click the
Manually Connect to a Wireless Network option, and click
Next.
In the Enter Information for the wireless network you want to
add then enter the info as above.
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by: jlknappPosted on 2009-11-04 at 12:56:56ID: 25743827
In my experiance if you have a wireless profile set up in windows zero configuration and it is set to automatic you are connected before logon Vista offers the same capabilities