Old LapTop.

Sam Quentin

My uncle gave me an old laptop, it's running Windows XP.
The problem is: It's not showing 'available networks', it's just not giving me a choice to connect to my Sky Router.. Everything else I have just shows available networks and I choose my home broadband router and just enter the router password and it's connected...
If I get a flash drive will that do the job!?
Does a flash drive plugged into laptop usb then pick up available networks...

theteal

A usb flash drive provides some storage space, it has no effect on network connectivity.

It sounds like the problem in the network card, it could be disabled, could be faulty, might only work on 2.4 and your router is pushing out 5.0. Do you see any neighbours WiFi networks on the laptop?

Johnboy1951

Have you checked for an on/off switch for the wireless?
Some laptops have such a switch.

Atlantic Dawn

Do you know if it even has a WIFI adaptor built in, there's a chance if very old that it doesn't. You can buy them and connect via USB if it doesn't...

https://www.ebay.ie/itm/Wifi-Dongle-Usb-Adapter-Wireless-Dongle-Adaptor-802-11-B-G-N-Lan-Network/122913991181?hash=item1c9e3eaa0d:g:jQsAAOSwdTJaW5bP

https://www.ebay.ie/itm/USB-Wifi-Router-150Mbps-Wireless-Adapter-Dongle-LAN-Card-Antenna-For-PC-Laptop/192074158239?hash=item2cb883109f:g:QsUAAOSw2gxYtrZr

smuggler.ie

Sounds like OP call USB WiFi adapter a "flash drive".

Yes, USB WiFi adapter would do the job

niallb

Windows XP didn't support WPA2 until Service Pack 3.
Before doing anything else, check to see what version of Windows is on it - if it says SP2 or lower, you'll have to update it.
While you're at it, changing the OS to almost anything else will give you a better experience!

What model is the laptop? It should be easy to work out then if there's built in wireless, but even a USB wifi dongle won't connect to modern networks without the update.

smuggler.ie

Correct me if I'm wrong
1.WPA2 - security protocol - even if not supported still should show SSID as available network if WiFi card present. Wouldn't be able to connect obviously.
2.With USB adapter should work as encryption/handshake is done on/via card/adapter. Getting drivers for XP might be culprit.

niallb

If there's a WiFi card, it should show ssid, but likely not connect to it. Finding the model of the laptop helps rule out there being an existing wireless card that's turned off.

WPA2 would still require support in the operating system on a usb dongle.

Sam Quentin

Sorry guys, thanks for all your quick replies.
I will check all this when I'm finished working tonight.

Sam Quentin

theteal wrote: »

A usb flash drive provides some storage space, it has no effect on network connectivity.

It sounds like the problem in the network card, it could be disabled, could be faulty, might only work on 2.4 and your router is pushing out 5.0. Do you see any neighbours WiFi networks on the laptop?

It doesn't even show a list of available WiFi 📶 neighbours etc

Sam Quentin

Atlantic Dawn wrote: »

Do you know if it even has a WIFI adaptor built in, there's a chance if very old that it doesn't. You can buy them and connect via USB if it doesn't...

https://www.ebay.ie/itm/Wifi-Dongle-Usb-Adapter-Wireless-Dongle-Adaptor-802-11-B-G-N-Lan-Network/122913991181?hash=item1c9e3eaa0d:g:jQsAAOSwdTJaW5bP

https://www.ebay.ie/itm/USB-Wifi-Router-150Mbps-Wireless-Adapter-Dongle-LAN-Card-Antenna-For-PC-Laptop/192074158239?hash=item2cb883109f:g:QsUAAOSw2gxYtrZr

It does give some options about ethernet and some other connections... Vodafone is showing in internet option, that's probably how it was connected before!?

FanadMan

Windows XP is a real pain when it comes to wireless. Are you sure that there is wireless available with your current computer configuration? Maybe your uncle had a PCMCIA or USB wireless adapter installed.

You said that there are wireless connections in the list. They may be old ones that the laptop were able to access. Follow this to remove all older connections and try again.

https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_xp-networking/how-to-delete-a-wifi-network-profile-windows-xp/602a616d-8adc-4e73-9f52-8213c1a9ba08

Do you have an ethernet cable that you could use to connect the laptop to the router? It would help us to know if the network adapters are active or not.

Sam Quentin

niallb wrote: »

Windows XP didn't support WPA2 until Service Pack 3.
Before doing anything else, check to see what version of Windows is on it - if it says SP2 or lower, you'll have to update it.
While you're at it, changing the OS to almost anything else will give you a better experience!

What model is the laptop? It should be easy to work out then if there's built in wireless, but even a USB wifi dongle won't connect to modern networks without the update.

It's an E-SYSTEM EI 3102 and it's in great condition..

Sam Quentin

I'll try Monday connecting Ethernet cable.

Sam Quentin

This may be what it was connected to before!?

smuggler.ie

Check this out:
Enabling-Wireless-Zero-Config-WZC-on-Windows-XP

smuggler.ie

Wireless Zero Configuration Reference

The Wireless Zero Configuration can also be started and stopped from a command prompt. To start the Wireless Zero Configuration, run the following command:
net start wzcsvc

To stop the Wireless Zero Configuration, run the following command:
net stop wzcsvc

NialltheITGuy

WiFi Card shows Wireless G version, which is old and may not be compatible with today G Versions.

Buy a small usb WiFi with N+ 2.4Ghz / 5ghz ( It will say this on the box ) some have XP Compatibility.

N and AC WiFi standards are in use nowadays, the G standards are old and todays G can be incompatible with old G WiFi Cards.

WiFi: (Confirmed working with XP/Vista/7/8.1/10)
pcworld dot ie -> tplink tlwn725n usb wireless adapter n150

Source:(Please Google, I cannot post URLS)
actiontec DOT com evolution-wi-fi-standards-look-802-11abgnac

NialltheITGuy

NialltheITGuy wrote: »

WiFi Card shows Wireless G version, which is old and may not be compatible with today G Versions.

N and AC WiFi standards are in use nowadays, the G standards are old and todays G can be incompatible with old G WiFi Cards

Are you just making this up as you go along?

802.11b/g/n is the common implemented standard. If you’re saying some 802.11g cards/nics won’t work with 802.11b/g/n routers becuse they’re ‘old G type’, you're wrong.

JZ
A real life IT guy.

Sam Quentin

smuggler.ie wrote: »

Check this out:
Enabling-Wireless-Zero-Config-WZC-on-Windows-XP

Good write up and it looks promising, I'll try this later and see what happens.

Sam Quentin

NialltheITGuy wrote: »

WiFi Card shows Wireless G version, which is old and may not be compatible with today G Versions.

Buy a small usb WiFi with N+ 2.4Ghz / 5ghz ( It will say this on the box ) some have XP Compatibility.

N and AC WiFi standards are in use nowadays, the G standards are old and todays G can be incompatible with old G WiFi Cards.

WiFi: (Confirmed working with XP/Vista/7/8.1/10)
pcworld dot ie -> tplink tlwn725n usb wireless adapter n150

Source:(Please Google, I cannot post URLS)
actiontec DOT com evolution-wi-fi-standards-look-802-11abgnac

I'll try configuring it first and if that doesn't work WiFi adapters are pretty cheap, so I'll give that a go

NialltheITGuy

I have experienced numerous older Wireless G based network cards not joining newer Routers.
(If you dont believe me about this, google it there are many, many, many fine examples)
It falls on the WPA2 protocol implemented by XP.
XP clearly supports WPA2 (with updates), but also depends on the wireless card you have, it would have to support wpa2 if using g or n bands.

From an XP Guru:
1. Make sure, you verify under "Preferred Networks" click on the connection that's not working, click properties.

Verify WPA2 is an option in "Authentication". If it's not download the latest drivers for your wireless adapter, restart computer and check again.

2. Next problem is XP's Wireless Lan Manager; it is absolute garbage on XP for WPA2. I have seen many XP SP3 unable to connect to WPA2 because of this. You need to use the wireless manager that comes with your wireless adapter drivers. When you install them opt to install with the software, not just the driver.

GarIT

Just be aware most banking websites won’t let you use them if you are using XP and you have to assume any information you put into it is available to scammers has XP is no longer updated or secured by microsoft. As long as you are only doing thinks you would mind anyone else knowing about XP should be fine.

NialltheITGuy

Install Linux, There are many Types but Zorin OS (Irish Guys) have decent Distro.

distrowatch dot org and google what will run well.

I do this with all XP laptops I get. I have many that'll be donated to my local school once all refurbished.

smuggler.ie

"old G" .... "new G" .....
WTF you are talking

NialltheITGuy

smuggler.ie wrote: »

"old G" .... "new G" .....
WTF you are talking

G (Original - Old)

Super G (new)

Super AG (new)

I ment to say XP and WPA2/PSK has trouble unless SP3 is installed, still buggy after the fact.

Newer NICS are better. TP-Link N150 less than €20, no issues.

Sam Quentin

I'm getting a bit confused here, I really just want to get online for now.. Then I can download update any extras to bring this 'baby' into the future.... I can't do all this until Monday,. I'll update you all on my progress.
Thanks

NialltheITGuy

quickest would be create WEP access on Router TEMPORARILY.

WEP has no problems with XP but very insecure. Use this to connect the XP laptop.

Access to your router is written on the Router. WEP would replace your current WPA2 2.4Ghz setting, G only works at 2.4Ghz, Keep the settings on 5Ghz Wifi side if you have it, no need to change these.

Without changing WiFi Settings:
If you have a Network cable, plug it in directly to router to go online, make sure ethernet port is active and set to automatic DHCP Lease

smuggler.ie

@Sam Quentin
Ignore all that nonsense...., troubleshot you build in WiFi card or get USB adapter, confirm you got SP3 on your XP

NialltheITGuy wrote: »

Super G (new)

Super AG (new)

Non of these were approved as 802.11 Standard, feature only....
www.pcmag.com

Be warned, however, that Super G is not standards-based......

wikipedia.org

Super G is one of several competing incompatible proprietary extension approaches....

http://ethw.org

This feature may interfere with other networks and may not support all b and g client cards.

Even if "feature" not supported should read SSID

Sam Quentin

smuggler.ie wrote: »

Check this out:
Enabling-Wireless-Zero-Config-WZC-on-Windows-XP

We'r getting there..
Now showing available networks.
But just wont connect!?

Sam Quentin

smuggler.ie wrote: »

Check this out:
Enabling-Wireless-Zero-Config-WZC-on-Windows-XP

Only one of those available networks give me a chance to enter 'network key'.

smuggler.ie

Looks like your network card recognize WPA security protocol only as per your screenshot.
SKYEEFEB must be on WPA2



You never confirmed you have SP3 installed.
For testing purposes you could change security protocol on SKY router to WPA if available and try to connect.
Note:
1. All modifications or router should be performed over Ethernet connection(wired connection)
1. Changing security protocol on router will wipe existing password so take note of it if want to use same again. Record all/any changes done for ease restore
2. All devices currently connected over WiFi will/might loose connection until original settings restored on router or reconnected with new settings


Also move closer to router to eliminate weak signal issues.

Sam Quentin

smuggler.ie wrote: »

Looks like your network card recognize WPA security protocol only as per your screenshot.
SKYEEFEB must be on WPA2



You never confirmed you have SP3 installed.
For testing purposes you could change security protocol on SKY router to WPA if available and try to connect.
Note:
1. All modifications or router should be performed over Ethernet connection(wired connection)
1. Changing security protocol on router will wipe existing password so take note of it if want to use same again. Record all/any changes done for ease restore
2. All devices currently connected over WiFi will/might loose connection until original settings restored on router or reconnected with new settings


Also move closer to router to eliminate weak signal issues.

I don't think it recognized that other eir network either.. I'm sure it issued the same 'can't connect' message as my sky network!? I'm at work now, so can't check until tomorrow or Monday.
Also I really don't want to change any settings on my Sky router.
And yes I was nearly beside router when trying to connect...

Edit: What's SP3?

smuggler.ie

SP3 = service pack 3, last available for XP
Right click your My Computer icon, choose Properties and under the General tab it will show you if you have XP SP3 installed.

degsie

Out of curiosity, why would anybody want to connect an insecure OS to the internet?

Sam Quentin

smuggler.ie wrote: »

SP3 = service pack 3, last available for XP
Right click your My Computer icon, choose Properties and under the General tab it will show you if you have XP SP3 installed.

SP2

smuggler.ie

Available on Microsoft catalog

Sam Quentin

smuggler.ie wrote: »

Available on Microsoft catalog

I'll try plugging in with ethernet cable, then I'll download one of those packs..
Do you think it'll pick up the internet straight away when I directly plug cable from router to laptop..
This laptop was hardly used and has still just got only the original programs that come pre-loaded, nothing else has been added.. No pics, no videos, no clutter NOTHING. I've played dash-cam footage on it and the video player is seamless(unlike my go to laptop).
That's why I'd like this 'baby' up and running, I'll probably only use it for boards.ie, some car forums UK & Ireland that I'm a member off and uploading pics and videos from diy jobs and dash-cams to these forums/websites.. viewing emails and printing documents etc etc..
Do you think all that would be ok when I get it going, or is XP to old!?
Thanks

smuggler.ie

Once wire connected, will be on Internet unless NIC was configured for static IP.
Be aware that, as was mentioned earlier, XP is waaaay outdated, no longer supported and highly insecure operating system. By connecting it on your network you exposing whole network to risk.
I helping you troubleshoot WiFi issues on this machine as you ask for it, but same as others here, I do not recommend using this laptop with current OS for Internet browsing.

GarIT

Sam Quentin wrote: »

viewing emails and printing documents etc etc..
Do you think all that would be ok when I get it going, or is XP to old!?

As long as you are comfortable with anyone reasonably determined reading those documents and emails. While you are using XP you should assume anyone can read what's on your screen and everything you type.

It's not likely but it's not possible to protect against and you would have no way of knowing it's happing so you're better off not taking any risks with anything you don't want others with bad intentions seeing.

Sam Quentin

Ok so now I'm scared..
What about refurbished computers, can I refurbish this laptop,,
Or do I have to be online before I 'refurbish' it??

If someone wants to send me detailed instructions on how to do this then I would be very happy..
Send by pm if it's an industry secret
Thank You.

niallb

If you increase the memory to 2GB your OS options are much wider.
The model probably came with 512MB, but 2x 1GB sticks of that age can be picked up for a few euro somewhere like CeX or adverts.

If you just want to use it for web stuff, Cloudready is easily installed and turns an old laptop into something like a Chromebook.
http://www.neverware.com

beauf

It will likely be too slow regardless of what you put on it.

Worztron

NialltheITGuy wrote: »

Install Linux, There are many Types but Zorin OS (Irish Guys) have decent Distro.

distrowatch dot org and google what will run well.

I do this with all XP laptops I get. I have many that'll be donated to my local school once all refurbished.

+1

XP is long out of security support.

beauf

Anyone Tried CloudReady?

Skerries

would Ubuntu or some other flavour be an option on that laptop?

beauf

Unless you get get a very light linux most normal linux distros need decent hardware to run well.

The main issue though is that web sites need a decent hardware to be usable. Unless this machine has at least a late model core2duo with 2.5ghz and at least 2GB of RAM it will crawl regardless of the OS. Its just too old. I think you're wasting your time trying to get it up on the web.

Worztron

beauf wrote: »

Unless you get get a very light linux most normal linux distros need decent hardware to run well.

The main issue though is that web sites need a decent hardware to be usable. Unless this machine has at least a late model core2duo with 2.5ghz and at least 2GB of RAM it will crawl regardless of the OS. Its just too old. I think you're wasting your time trying to get it up on the web.

antiX could be an option.

https://distrowatch.com/table.php?distribution=antiX

niallb

Double Post

niallb

beauf wrote: »

Anyone Tried CloudReady?

Yes. Much simpler to set up than the other chromiumos builds and still available for 32 bit machines.
Worked flawlessly on the last old laptop I put it on. It has Google's blessing too in recent times.

All I had to do was put it on a usb stick, boot from it and say Yes a few times. The download and installer to usb can be done on another machine.

beauf

How did you get it on a usb stick I've tried about 3 times and not got a workable boot drive from it yet. I've tried the Chromebook utility, Rufus, and the windows usb maker.