Macbook wireless won't connect automatically?

Hi all, forgive me if this is a common question or something easily found in the settings, I'm getting too many unrelated hits when I search.

My Macbook doesn't automatically connect to the network when I boot into OS X (works fine booting into XP). TO connect I have to manually select my network from the menu bar (it always connects instantly). I know it is just a minor annoyance, but many times when I boot into OS X it is just so I can do a file transfer to another computer or to the TiVo. I'd like to be able to just turn it on and walk away while it is booting and connect automatically. Is there some setting in System Preferences for this?

Thanks
Dylan

 

That is unusual...your MacBook should connect to your WiFi network automatically. In System Preferences, go to Network, press Configure and make sure the "By default, join (select option)" is the right option for you. If that is configured correctly, I don't know why your MacBook doesn't connect automatically.

 

You could also try and go into your application folder, then utilities subfolder and open up keychain. Check if your password for the wifi in keychain is correct.

 

Yes. If you are using WPA or WPA2, make sure your key isn't getting corrupted. If it is, you have to manually delete your preferred network, then remove the keychain entry - then reboot and redo.

 

I'm using WPA. If the keychain entry was corrupted I'd be prompted to enter it when I manually connected to the network right?

I'm working today, so I can't check the System Preferences or Keychain until later tonight, but I will as soon as I get home.

Thanks for the suggestions.