Question 2.5: Setting Up a Wireless Connection You want to connect your Ra......

Setting up a wireless connection is very easy if you are using a recent version of the Raspbian distribution, as this includes a WiFi Config utility with a shortcut on the desktop. If you are not using a recent distribution, then you should update to one (see Recipes 1.4 through 1.8).

Simply plug a compatible USB wireless adapter (most are) into one of the USB sockets on your Raspberry Pi, launch the WiFi Config utility (Figure 2-3), and then click the Scan button to search for access points. Double-click on the access point (for your home hub) that you want to join and then enter the password in the PSK field.

Finally, click Connect to join the network.

Discussion

USB WiFi adapters can use quite a lot of power, so if you find your Pi rebooting unexpectedly or not booting properly, then you may need to use a larger power supply for it. Look for a supply that is 1.5A or more.

If you’re using a keyboard and mouse as well, you may find you’ve run out of USB sockets. In that case, a USB hub is the answer. Choosing a hub with its own power supply will also help with the power problem.

See Also

For wired connections, see also Recipe 2.1. For a list of WiFi adapters that are compatible with the Raspberry Pi, go to http://elinux.org/RPi_VerifiedPeripherals.