Depending on your settings, Windows XP may show an icon on the Taskbar when it is connected to a network. This provides easy access to network settings even while you are already connected.

If this icon does not appear, perform the following tweak:

1. Access the "Network Connections" window. One way to do this is to click the "Start" button, selecting "Connect To" - "Show All Connections". If you are using the "Classic" Start Menu, click the "Start" button, selecting "Settings" then "Network Connections".

If neither option appears, click the "Start" button, then select "All Programs" if you are using the Windows XP start menu, or "Programs" if you are using the "Classic" Start Menu. Select "Accessories" - "Communications" - "Network Connections".

2. Right-click your desired network connection's icon and choose "Properties" from the popup menu that appears.


3. When the properties dialog box appears, check "Show icon in notification area when connected".

4. Click "OK" to close the dialog box.

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