# What is a WEP key?

A WEP key is like a password that allows printers and computers to join a wireless network. All devices on the same wireless network using WEP security share the same WEP key.

Note: | The WEP key is not the same as the password for the access point (wireless router) that allows you to configure the access point settings.

Your WEP key must be:

- Exactly 10 or 26 hexadecimal characters. Hexadecimal characters are A–F, a–f, and 0–9.

  or

- Exactly 5 or 13 ASCII characters. ASCII characters are letters, numbers, and symbols found on a keyboard. ASCII characters in a WEP key are case-sensitive.

Note: | Make sure you copy the WEP key exactly, including any capital letters, and store it in a safe place for future reference.

To find the WEP key for the wireless network, see the documentation that came with your access point, see the Web page associated with the access point, or consult your system support person.