subject: Netbooks and Networks [print this page] The word net in netbook doesn't apply to a hair net, fishing net, or Annette Funicello. Nope, net refers to Internet (or network), because when connected to the Net, the little laptop really shines.
All netbooks have an 802.11 wireless card for connecting to the Internet. If you've used Windows to connect to the Internet, a netbook works the same way. That means you need to do the following:
1. Make sure the wireless card is turned on.
2. Select an access point you want to connect to; use a correct password if the connection is encrypted.
3. Start using the Internet.
In addition to a wireless network card, netbooks also come with an Ethernet port for making a wired connection to the Internet or a local area network (LAN). You'll need an RJ45 cable to do this. Just plug one end of the cable into the netbook and the other into a network jack, and Windows should automatically do the rest and connect.
If you need more details on connecting to the Internet, be sure to read Chapter 6. In addition to the basics, I also cover 3G modems, sharing files on Windows networks, and using your netbook to remotely connect to another computer.
Aside from doing e-mail and browsing the Web, an Internet connection provides you and your netbook with a wealth of opportunities for taking advantage of second-generation Internet communications programs and social networking sites. The bring-it-anywhere nature of a netbook and a wireless Net connection allows you to use instant messages (IMs); Internet telephony (such as Skype); and social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter to your heart's content. If you haven't used these programs or sites before, be sure to read Chapter 10 to come up to speed.
