How to connect my desktop to a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi

I looked at Control Panel-->Network and Internet--> Network connections.

 Neither Bluetooth or Wi-Fi are connected.

 How can I connect my computer to the internet via a wireless connection?

 Thanks,

..... and if you need Bluetooth you could get one these ...
http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2047675.m570.l1311.R1.TR11.TRC1.A0.H0.Xusb+bluetooth&_nkw=usb+bluetooth+dongle&_sacat=0

My computer has wireless network capability.
I just need to know how to set up a connection to use when my wired service is down for maintenance.

My computer has wireless network capability.
I just need to know how to set up a connection to use when my wired service is down for maintenance.

Yes, once you enable the wireless NIC, you should see a list of wireless networks you can connect to.  Just because your computer has a wireless network card doesn't mean you have access to a wireless access point.  Additionally, you may need a passcode in order to access the wireless network.

Also, you DO NOT want both of these connections enabled simultaneously.

Lastly, it seems extremely likely that if your wired connection is down, your wireless connection will also be down, unless you're leeching off someone else's Internet connection.  I don't endorse using someone else's wireless connection without their express consent.

Not only do I install only software that I pay for licensing, but I refuse to work on any computer that has unlicensed software installed.

>>Lastly, it seems extremely likely that if your wired connection is down, your wireless connection will also be down<<

That's why I need the wireless connection as a backup.

I thought I might need a router. Is a dongle a router?

Thanks,

Hello Dovberman, we really need more information about your setup.

You can buy a 2G / 3G usb dongle from a mobile phone shop
that will a auto-install itself and connect you to the internet immediately.

You buy it on a prepay plan .... this is what they look like ...
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-Wireless-USB-Dongle-3G-2G-with-SIM-Card-WIFI-Router-hotspot-interface-/261125006977

http://www.virginmobileusa.com/mobile-broadband-plans/broadband-2-go/overview/

http://www.truconnect.com/

I looked a the Belkin N150 Wireless USB Adapter 150MBps Link Rate on Amazon for less than $20.00

I do not need anything more sophisticated just for backup.

I have a Dell 2300 that is less than 3 years old. The USB ports are version 2.0.

This is what it looks like.

http://www.amazon.com/Belkin-N150-Wireless-Adapter-150MBps/dp/B004N625BE/ref=dp_ob_title_ce      

Thanks,

You don't seem to get it.  The router is your connection to the Internet.  Unless you're paying for two Internet connections, if your Internet connection goes down, it won't matter if you connect wirelessly or not.

As [Eirman] notes, you can buy a device that can essentially connect you to the Internet via the cellular phone system, but this is a separate connection and you'll have to pay for it separately.  You'll also not want to use both connections simultaneously.

It's confusing, but now I understand. Thanks for all your help.