Connecting Windows XP SP2 in its Default Interface

Security Warning

Wireless networks by their nature are not secure. You should not use the wireless network for activities that involve the transfer of sensitive data like usernames and passwords, or the viewing of websites, emails or files containing private information, unless such transfers are protected by encryption like SSL. Some signs that you are using SSL encryption is if the URL of the website begins with "https" instead of "http", as well, most web browsers will have a padlock icon that appears somewhere at the bottom of the browser window when your connection is encrypted.

Reliable methods for securing wireless networks are currently being developed. It is USM's intention to implement a secure wireless network sometime in the future.

  1. Select Start > Connect To. If you have a wireless network card installed you should see a Wireless Network Connection.
    Select "Start" & "Connect To"
  2. Right-click on the Wireless Network Connection, if "Enable" is an option, select it; if not, continue.
    Right-click on the Wireless Network Connection, if "Enable" is an option, select it; if not, continue.
  3. Right-click on the Wireless Network Connection and select "View Available Wireless Networks".
    Right-click on the Wireless Network Connection and select "View Available Wireless Networks"
  4. The Wireless Network Connection window should appear. If you are in an area that is covered by the USM's Wireless Network there should be an available network called "tempest". See a list of covered buildings.
    The Wireless Network Connection window should appear
  5. Select "tempest" from the list and click the "Connect" button. You may see the following message:
    You may see the following message: "You are connecting to the unsecured netowrk ‘tempest’. Information sent over this network is not encrypted and might be visible to other people."
  6. Click "Connect Anyway". You should now be connected. If you are having trouble connecting, see Troubleshooting Your Connection.

For further information or problems with this page, contact: helpdesk@usm.maine.edu

The USM Computing site is maintained by Robin McGlauflin.