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How do I check and connect to a network before signing in?

Ensure Network Connection Before Signing In (Windows 11)

  1. Turn on or wake your device.
  2. At the Windows sign-in screen (before entering your password):
    1. Look in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
      Lower Corner Icons
    2. Find the network icon:
      1.  No Connection Icon Globe icon = Not connected
      2.  WiFi Connected Icon Wi‑Fi bars = Connected to Wi‑Fi
      3.  Ethernet Connected Icon Monitor icon = Connected via Ethernet
If you see Wi‑Fi bars or Ethernet, your device is already connected, and you can sign in.

Connect to a Wi-Fi Network Before Signing In

If you are NOT connected (globe icon):

Step-by-step:

  1. On the sign-in screen, click the network icon (bottom-right corner "Globe").
  2. A list of available Wi‑Fi networks will appear.
    WiFi List
  3. Select your preferred Wi‑Fi network name (SSID).
    **See the SOM Wireless page for SOM Wi-Fi Network information
    (Optionally check "Connect automatically" if you trust the Wi-Fi network)
    Click Connect.
    WiFi Connect
  4. Enter the Wi‑Fi password when prompted.
    WiFi Password
  5. Click Next or Connect.

Once connected, the icon will change to Wi‑Fi bars.

 

Connect Using a Docking Station or Ethernet Adapter

If Wi‑Fi is unavailable or unreliable, you can use a wired connection, which is often faster and more stable.

Option 1: Docking Station

  1. Connect your laptop to the docking station using the appropriate cable (USB‑C, Thunderbolt, etc.).
  2. Ensure the dock is:
    • Powered on (if required)
    • Connected to the network via an Ethernet cable
  3. Windows should automatically detect the connection.

Look for the monitor/Ethernet icon at the sign-in screen.

Option 2: USB Ethernet Adapter

  1. Plug the USB Ethernet adapter into your laptop.
  2. Connect an Ethernet cable from the adapter to a wall network port or router.
  3. Wait a few seconds for Windows to recognize it.

The network icon should change to the Ethernet symbol automatically.