I've got a lap top with windows 98 installed, using an 802.11/b PC CARD, I can't get it to connect to my access point while WEP or WPA is enabled...Is it possible to do this with Windows 98?

I doubt windows 98 would support WPA since Windows XP wouldn't even support it without a certain update.......And WEP is a panty waste for the most part and wouldn't make MUCH of a difference since it's so easily crackable......So what's the use? I don't know, I guess some encryption is better than nothing. So if anyone has any ideas on how to encrypt my wireless access point using Windows 98 I'd APPRECIATE some data... WEP is definitely better than nothing since it reduces the risk of casual users encroaching on your network. I suspect the problem is not Win98 though - more like the drivers for the network card aren't up to the job. Might be an idea to migrate that laptop to Linux unless you've got some Windows-only applications you can't live without.That's an excellent suggestion, Rob. No, I know you don't need me to add to my post count to point out that observation.

Linux is a really good ALTERNATIVE for older systems, asi different Linux distributions ("distros") run robustly on older equipment.The laptop barely meets the system requirements for Ubuntu... The HDD is only 4 gig...Are there and distros lighter than Ubuntu? ...I've looked around for larger hard drives but couldn't find anything larger than 4 gig......Couldn't I convert a USB thumb drive to a fixed drive..Isn't there a program that "flips the bit" on the USB drive, and makes the computer recognize it as a fixed drive?

Pent. 2......160 MB ram......4 GB HDD........Toshiba Satellite 4005CS

I guess I could try one of the live linux distros...I've already got Knoppix burned to CD. I'd hate to get rid of Windows 98 so this might be good ....I like the sound that Win98 makes when first logging on ....I know that's a dumb reason to keep 98, but I kind of like retro-type stuff, anyway.

Say, are there any tutorials available on how to make Knoppix Live connect to your home access point, because I've tried to do it with Knoppix before, but I didn't know exactly what I was doing..


edit: I do have an 802.11/g card to go with the laptop but I'm having problems installing the driver for it...Basically, I need files from the installation disk that came with the laptop to properly install the driver (at least I THINK that's what the problem is).....I won't have the disk for a couple more weeks...Would the 802.11/g card support WEP?

new info on the /g card: it doesn't work, period. Whether using Windows 98 or Linux, the power indicator light never comes on.....when using the /b card at least there is indication that there is power to the card, but with the /g card....it shows no signs of life ...............waste of $12 bucks......came all the way from China too I don't have much further comment except to say that I've just completed a Debian GNU/Linux install on a very old Toshiba Portégé 3300CT with no built in network card, CDROM drive or floppy drive. It was a challenging but worthwhile install and you may find that >the blog I posted about the process< provides you with some ideas/inspiration. Quote from: Rob Pomeroy on June 24, 2009, 02:16:45 AM

I don't have much further comment except to say that I've just completed a Debian GNU/Linux install on a very old Toshiba Portégé 3300CT with no built in network card, CDROM drive or floppy drive. It was a challenging but worthwhile install and you may find that >the blog I posted about the process< provides you with some ideas/inspiration.