Windows 7 Wireless Network Backup & Import - Easy Guide

Simplifying Wireless Network Setup in Windows 7

This article, contributed by Ciprian from 7 Tutorials – a resource dedicated to Windows 7 – addresses a common frustration: the difficulty of remembering and correctly entering wireless security keys. Connecting laptops and netbooks to a wireless network can be streamlined with a built-in Windows 7 feature.

Exporting Wireless Settings

Windows 7 provides a straightforward method for exporting your wireless network configurations from one computer to another. These settings can be backed up and then transferred via a USB drive for use on devices running Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 7.

How to Save Your Wireless Network Settings Begin by accessing the Network and Sharing Center. This can be achieved by selecting the wireless network icon in the taskbar and choosing 'Open Network and Sharing Center'. Alternatively, navigate through the Control Panel to Network and Internet, then Network and Sharing Center.

On the left-hand side of the Network and Sharing Center window, select the 'Manage wireless networks' option.

The Manage Wireless Networks window displays a list of all previously connected wireless networks. Locate and double-click the network you wish to save.

A window containing the network’s properties will appear. To save these settings to a USB drive, click the link labeled 'Copy this network profile to a USB flash drive'.

The Copy Network Settings wizard will then initiate. Insert your USB flash drive and wait for it to be recognized before clicking the 'Next' button.

The copying process is rapid. Once completed, click 'Close'.

Upon examining your USB flash drive, you will find a file named setupSNK.exe and a folder called SMRTNTKY. It is crucial to avoid deleting these files from the USB drive.

Importing Wireless Settings

How to Import Your Wireless Network Settings To import the saved settings, insert the USB flash drive into the laptop or computer where you want to use the network. Then, run the setupSNK.exe file.

When the Wireless Network Setup Wizard appears, confirm by clicking 'Yes'.

The import process is quick. After completion, an acknowledgement message will be displayed; click 'OK' to begin using the wireless network.

This method proves particularly useful for both publicly accessible and hidden wireless networks. It eliminates the need to manually enter lengthy authentication keys, offering a more convenient solution. Feel free to share any similar helpful tips in the comments section below.

Note: For further Windows 7 assistance and tutorials, please visit Ciprian’s blog, 7 Tutorials.