The world is bristling with wireless networks, some of which are free with open access, and others that require a passphrase or a security key for access. Windows Vista recognizes the wireless networks that are within range and makes it easy for you to connect to them.
Click the Start button, and choose Connect To from the menu to start the Connect To A Network Wizard. If there are numerous network connections, choose Wireless from the Show list.
When you’re warned that the network is unsecured, click Connect Anyway, and then complete the wizard.
Use the network. When you’ve finished your work, choose Connect To from the Start menu, select the network, and click Disconnect.
"Connecting Without a Network" for information about creating an ad hoc (improvised) wireless network between two computers.
Click the Start button, and choose Connect To from the Start menu to start the Connect To A Network Wizard.
Type the security key or the passphrase that was assigned to you, or insert the USB portable device that contains the network settings.
Specify whether you want to save the network connection and whether you want it to start automatically whenever you start Windows.