When I installed my network last year, I used an old LinkSys wireless router I had on hand. It's 802.11b technology.

My main computer is wired in, and it works fine. I added a wireless card to my daughter's computer, and it works fine, too. Just detect the network and go. Both systems use XP SP3 and IE7/8.

So her friend comes over with a shiny new laptop. Windows 7 and Chrome. Spots the network right away, recognizes the SSID, and tries to connect automatically. A dialog box comes up and asks for the "security code" for the router. I have no clue what that is.

I logged onto the router and nothing anywhere said anything resembling a security code, and our other systems continue to work like before.

Questions:

1. What is the security code?
2. Is my router old enough so that it doesn't implement one?
3. Does Win7/Chrome require one even if there is none?

I googled for ways to reset the code, but when I follow the directions, the screens they mention don't appear. Is my firmware too old?

Any directions much appreciated.