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    Update driver for WPA?

    Discussion in 'Other Manufacturers' started by Sharon, Apr 27, 2009.

  1. Sharon

    Sharon Notebook Enthusiast

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    The more I get into this the dumber I become. I am trying to set up WPA security on my wireless network. I have a Netgear router WGR614 v.7, an Averatec 5110H with Windows XP SP3. It has an Intel(R) PRO/Wireless LAN 2100 3B (driver version-1.1.6.0).
    I figure that I need to update my driver for the wireless card, but I don't know where to safely download a driver that will work with this laptop and operating system and add WPA2 capability. Any suggestions?
     
    Sharon, Apr 27, 2009
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  2. serenityconsulting

    serenityconsulting Notebook Consultant

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    I believe your Wi-Fi adapter is a 'b' only device (802.11b). Extremely few 'b' devices have upgrades available to support WPA level security (WEP only, which is now swiss cheese, security wise).

    You best bet is to acquire an add-on 'g' capable adapter, either a card slot device or USB - all 'g' devices support WPA, and most newer units also do WPA2.
     
    serenityconsulting, Apr 27, 2009
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  3. Sharon

    Sharon Notebook Enthusiast

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    Do you have any recommendations, or would any adapter that is "g capable" work? I'd probably opt for USB. I also have an HP Pavilion dv9000 that works off my router and an HP 6280 printer connected to the router by ethernet. Will that have any effect on upgrading?
     
    Sharon, Apr 28, 2009
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  4. serenityconsulting

    serenityconsulting Notebook Consultant

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    I have no specific recommendations except to make sure current drivers for your OS are available before you buy. Beyond that, my personal choice is to go as cheap as gets the job done.

    And what will 'get the job done' is highly dependent on both the strength and quality of the wi-fi signal at the locations where it will be used.

    All wired devices connected to the router should continue to work the same as they do now, however all wi-fi connected devices should also be brought to the same signal type (g) and security type (WPA).
     
    serenityconsulting, Apr 30, 2009
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