How to Know If Your Laptop Has a WiFi Card

In today's technology-driven society, wireless networks can be found in virtually any locale. Along with smart phones, tablets and netbooks, laptops are one of the most common devices through which people connect to wireless networks. While most modern laptops come equipped with built-in WiFi cards, a fair number of older models do not. So if you've recently come into possession of an aged laptop, you can easily confirm whether or not the device is WiFi-ready.

Step 1Power up your laptop in an area that features WiFi. A home with a wireless network, bookstore, library or coffees shop is ideal for this task.

Step 2Click on the Windows start button. Access the computer's Control Panel.

Step 3Double click on the Network Connections icon. You will now be shown a list of your laptop's Internet connections.

Step 4Look for an icon labeled "Wireless Network Connection." If you see this icon, your laptop features a built-in wireless card.

Step 5Right click the Wireless Network Connection icon, then select "Connect to Wireless Network." Enjoy surfing the Web on your WiFi-enabled laptop.