How to connect to WPA/WPA2 encrypted Wi-Fi networks in Windows 7

      By default, most Wi-Fi routers provided by network providers like at&t, verizon etc. have WEP(Wired Equivalent Privacy) which can be cracked very easily within minutes. So, I had to switch to WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access) which is highly secured. I followed a regular approach by click on the network icon on the notification area and clicked on my Wi-Fi network and entered the password (regular stuff). I don’t know what went wrong but, I could not connect to the Wi-Fi network (Bummer). After, performing several searches, permutations and combinations, I could finally connect to my network. If you are facing the same problem follow this approach.

first click on the network icon on the notification area as shown by red circle in the diagram below



it should pop a small dialog with all Wi-Fi networks your computer can see. Click on the “Open Network and Sharing Center” as shown by a red circle in diagram



it should pop up a new window. Now click on the “Manage wireless networks” as shown by a red circle in the diagram below (it is usually on top left corner of the window)



You should see a different window. Now, click on the “Add” button which would pop up another window like this



Now click on the “Manually create a network profile” link which should move to a new window as shown below



In the “Network name” field enter the name of Wi-Fi network (it should be exact including upper case/ lower case/ spaces), for “Security type/ Encryption type” select appropriate value and for “Security Key” enter your network password also check Start this connection automatically check box. Now, Click Next to finish it (click close to close the dialog). Windows will try to automatically connect to your network. if the connection is successful and if you can get Internet then you are done. if you cannot get Internet, then perform the following steps. (This is what worked for me)

1. Shut down your computer, turn off your Wi-Fi router and modem (if you have one). Wait for atleast 60 seconds go to second step .


2. Turn on your modem first and wait for 30-45 seconds. Now turn on your Wi-Fi router and wait for another (30-45) seconds. Note: for some, you get only one box which is both modem/Wi-Fi in that case treat that box as modem and ignore the Wi-Fi router step.


3. Now turn on your computer you must get internet connection now.

Note: Shutting down your system and network devices is very important because it clears your network buffers and resets your connections.

if you face any other problem, drop a comment I will try to figure it out.