To use your computer on AQnet you need to have a network card. If you already have a network card installed, proceed to the section on configuring your operating system. Otherwise, you will need to purchase a 10/100/1000 network card from an electronics retailer.  You may choose to install it yourself or have a retailer or service technician install it for you.  Basic instructions for installing a network card are provided below.  Be sure to have all necessary driver and operating system media available during this process.

1. Unplug the computer from the power outlet. Open the computer's case. This usually requires removing a few screws on the back of the computer and sliding the cover off.
2. Be sure to ground yourself by touching part of the computer's case. All electronic components inside the computer are sensitive to static electricity—DO NOT TOUCH ANY COMPONETS WITHOUT FIRST BEING GROUNDED.
3. Locate an open slot in the computer to install the network card. If you have purchased a PCI network card, you will need an open PCI slot. If you have purchased an ISA network card, you will need an open ISA slot. PCI slots are usually white in color and shorter than ISA slots.
   
4. Once you have determined which slot you will install the network card into, you will need to remove the plate behind the chosen slot from the case. In most computer cases, the plate is screwed in from above.
5. Line up the network card from the slot and gently apply pressure to the card as you slide it into place.
   
6. Secure the card into the slot with the screw you removed earlier from the plate.
7. Once the card is in place, close the case and reattach the screws.
8. Restart the computer and follow the on-screen prompts accordingly.