Networking with XPS 420

Question

Hi everyone,   I recently bought a XPS 420 and installed it last night. Took a good 1 and a half because I'm a real noob.  I tried connecting to my wireless network but keep getting this prompt that the computer is unable to because something is not plugged in?   I misplaced my manual somewhere so I want to ask if there's a wireless card already built in the machine? If not, what are the steps I need to get it connected to my network and the internet?   Thank you in advance!   p.s: I should point out that the modem and router is connected to our other computer in the other room.

volcano11 · Answer

Dell desktop computers do not come standard with a wireless network adapter.  You don't have one unless you ordered one as an extra.   You can either connect by wired ethernet, if the distance to the router is not too great, or you can purchase a USB wireless network adapter to connect by wireless.   Steve

eskymi · Answer

If it says it's not plugged in then you have to run a cable into the computer from the router.

To check if you have a wireless card, go to START, type DEVICE MANAGER on the start search line, open the DEVICE MANAGER and click on the plus sign by the NETWORK ADAPTER part. Then it should show a wireless card along with an ethernet card.

If you have one, did you make sure to connect the antenna that came with it?

ps_guy · Answer

I checked network directory in the Device Manager and there's 2 entries for Bluetooth and a Intel(R) - 2 Gigabit Network Connection.  Not sure what that is.

ps_guy · Answer

I checked out the specs for the XPS 420 again...

http://www1.ca.dell.com/content/products/productdetails.aspx/xpsdt_420?c=ca&l=en&s=dhs&cs=cadhs1

Communications

Network adapter (standard)

10/100/1000 Ethernet LAN on system board

Wireless options

Internal Wi-Fi (802.11g)

Bluetooth® 2.0 wireless technology with Media Card Reader

I'm a bit confused. Does this mean I have Wi-fi?

volcano11 · Answer

Wireless is an option.  If you did not order it with the option you don't have it.  According to your Device Manager option, you do have the Bluetooth adapter.  Bluetooth is a low range type of wireless that is not generally used for networking.  You can use it to connect to a cell phone or for bluetooth enabled keyboard, mice, or speakers.  Your Device Manager does not show a listing for a WiFi wireless network adapter which is what you would need to connect to a wireless router.   Steve

clamper · Answer

I recently built and ordered a XPS 420 online. I found no Internal Wi-Fi (802.11g) option included as I went step by step through the build process. If it was there it escaped me. I also need this and would hope one is in the PC. James

ronss · Answer

wireless on the mother board is usually something that you find on high end boards, and very few as a matter a fact. i have the asus m2n32 -sli deluxe wireless, and it has onboard wireless realtek,, and its just g stanard.i had no idea that realtek made wireless chips,, i thought they were into music.. very few motherboards have this feature as with wireless chips..

Message Edited by ronss on 12-18-2007 02:40 AM

ps_guy · Answer

James: Unfortunately, it's not included in the default XPS 420.  I am shocked how it's not a standard to include internal Wi-fi in PC now a days.  I mean, this is 2007!   I was so psyched about web surfing for the first time on my XPS 420 but now have to hunt down a external Wi-fi card first.   Thanks a lot Dell.     p.s: Do I need to purchase a Dell Wifi card or can it be any brand? Just anything that's 802.11b/g is good?

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

Networking with XPS 420

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