"Radio turned off"

[Critters2]

I have a problem--probably a minor one--when I try to get online via wifi. I can't get connected to my network, and keep getting a message that says "Radio is turned off". I haven't changed any settings (knowingly, at least), and have no idea what this "radio" is, or how to turn it back on.

Thanks for any help!

[canetoad]

1. Could it possible mean

Radio Button?

That is a set of buttons, usually round with a dot in them when selected, and you can only pick one option.

[Why Syzygy]

2. Not SURE I can help ..

but is that a Toshiba PC. If not what kind of PC? What Operating System and what kind of network and modem? Are you able to connect with an Ethernet cable?

[Critters2]

3. It's a Gateway laptop, with Vista.

I'm trying to connect to the wifi router in my office. I'm completely stupid about such things, and don't know what an ethernet cable is. It's always been easy to connect to wifi with this. Most of the time, I don't have to do anything. Turn it on, and the pop up comes up telling me I'm connected. So, I'm completely confused by this.

[Why Syzygy]

4. A couple of things..

Vista is not my native language, and I don't use a laptop. But, from what I'm reading, I can make a couple of suggestions. When I ask about the Ethernet, I just mean, so you must have to plug in a wired connection? You're obviously connected? Right?

Is there a tiny switch or button on the front or side of the laptop? If so, toggle or press.
If you have a connection now, do you have an icon for the connection in your system tray (little computer screen)? If so, right click and view available wireless networks. I'm not certain of the steps with Vista, but either right click or in the option panel on the left side of the network window, there is an option to "Enable connection". That should refresh the connection. Report any error with exact wording.

The only other thing I would know to look at is the driver for your network card.

Someone else may be able to zero in, but at least there are a couple of things to try.

[Critters2]

6. Hey!! Thanks!! There IS a switch on the side of the laptop,

and, apparently, I turned it off at some point. Well, I've turned it back on and all's well! Thanks, Why Syzygy!

[Why Syzygy]

8. Good deal.

Thanks for letting me know you got it resolved!

[ChromeFoundry]

5. There is usually a Hot-Key to disable your WiFi..

Usually you have to hold down the "Fn" key and press one of the "F1-F12" keys.

If you have a model number on your laptop, that would be very helpful.

Also, like "Why Syzygy" stated, a small button near a radio tower looking picture or something like one of these




usually means "radio transmitter".

[Critters2]

7. I found the switch. It's back on. Thanks!! nt