When using WPA-PSK encryption should the network key be transmitted by the router and automatically retained on a wireless networked laptop? That is, on the "Choose a wireless network" page only the "connect" button needs to be pushed (twice) to establish the connection - the network key having been entered automatically.

Re: Wireless setup

<> That would make the security thing a bit pointless don't you think? No, hit connect, enter the passphrase and away you go. If this isn't what is happening, then you have not set up the security correctly on the router.

Chris B

Re: Wireless setup

The PSK of WPA-PSK stands for Pre Shared Key. This means that for most older routers you need to manually share the key between all computers. This may involve writing the key on a piece of paper and taking it around to all PCs and entering it in manually when you try to connect the first time.

Some new routers allow you "one button setup" which generates a long key and transmits this to PCs the first time they try to connect. However you are still required to enter short passphrase on the PC in order to obtain the long key.

So it really depends what sort of access point you have.

Re: Wireless setup

When you click "connect" you should be prompted to enter the encryption key that you set up in the router. It is not automatic, as that would enable anyone to log in to your router - defeating the purpose of the encrypted key in the first place. At the "choose wireless network" page along with the SSID it should say whether the network is "secure" or "unsecured". If it says unsecured then you havent set up the WPA encryption correctly, or it hasnt been saved in the router fully. Try re-entering it in the router and "apply" the settings. Reboot the router if necessary.

Peter