5. Managing Wireless Connections (Roaming)

[Tip] How to Run this Tool

 This tool is embedded into the Network Center (Section 1.2, “Network Center: Reconfiguring and Monitoring Network Interfaces”). You can also right click on the “signal meter” icon in the panel and choose Wireless networks+Manage wireless networks. Then enter root's password to access the tool.

This tool shows the wireless networks currently available. It also allows you to switch between the networks and to change their configurations. If you haven't configured your wireless interface yet, please refer to Section 1.1.2, “Wireless Connection”. Figure 10.13, “DrakRoam's Interface” shows DrakRoam's interface: a list of the available networks, together with their status, and buttons for actions at the bottom.

Figure 10.13. DrakRoam's Interface

DrakRoam's Interface

The list of detected networks is shown. If you expect other networks, click Refresh.

5.1. Switching Networks

To change networks, select one from the list, then click on Connect. If the network is public, you are immediately connected. If it's private, you are asked for configuration parameters with the same dialog shown in Figure 10.14, “Changing Wireless Network Configuration”. Provide the required settings (in particular, the encryption key) and click OK. Settings take effect immediately.

5.2. Configuring a Wireless Connection

If you need to change the network parameters, select the network from the list, then click on Configure. See Figure 10.14, “Changing Wireless Network Configuration” for an example of a secure wireless network connection.

Figure 10.14. Changing Wireless Network Configuration

Changing Wireless Network Configuration

Make your adjustments and click OK; the settings take effect immediately. Click on Advanced to fine tune parameters such as network ID and frequency.