Step by Step Guide to Getting Online With the Nintendo Wii

There are a wealth of free Wii games through the internet channel, as well as some really entertaining multiplayer games. In particular, if you are a serious or hardcore Wii gamer, you will definitely want to start taking advantage of the Wii's online capability. There are great Wii games for kids online as well, so it is not all about hardcore gameplay.

One of the Nintendo Wii’s many amazing features is the ability to connect to the internet to download virtual console games, play against friends, send messages and transfer Miis, and even browse the internet. After previous generations’ offline-only approach to multiplayer, it’s nice to see that Nintendo finally saw the value of jumping on the online bandwagon.

Connecting your Wii to the internet is a relatively-painless process, but can be somewhat confusing for the newcomer. Luckily, you’ve found our step-by-step guide that will walk you through the entire process.

You’re going to need a couple things before you get started connecting your Wii to your wireless network.

• A wireless router connected to the internet.
• The name of your network and the security password (if it’s a secured network).

If you have any problems concerning your individual router, be sure to check out the instruction manual or find troubleshooting tips on the hardware manufacturer’s website.

Once you’ve got everything you need, fire up your TV and your Wii. From the main menu, click the “Wii” button in the bottom left corner of your screen. It’ll be right next to the time and date on the bottom of the screen.

1. This will bring up the Wii screen. There are two options, Data Management and Wii Settings. Click the Wii Settings button on the right side of the screen.
2. You should now be looking at the Wii System Settings screen. There are three pages to choose from, and we’re looking for the second, so press either the arrow on the right side of the screen or the 2 button in the bottom right.
3. On the Wii System Settings 2 screen, there are several options. The “Internet” button is the second from the bottom; click it to continue with setup.
4. On the Internet screen, click on “Connection Settings.”
5. You should now see three connection options. It doesn’t matter which you choose, but it is easier if you pick one that hasn’t already been configured.
6. Choose a connection and click on it to continue. You’ll be offered the choice between a wireless and a wired connection. Choose “Wireless Connection.”
7. On the Connection screen, click “Search for an Access Point” to have the Wii automatically attempt to locate your network.
8. “Searching for an Access Point” will display for a few moments, and then the message “Choose the access point you want to connect to” will appear. Click “OK” to continue.

Now that you've found your network, check out page two to learn how to configure your connection and get your Nintendo Wii online.