combined wired & wirerless

[BobG]

Can you mix these to type networks? I'm looking to expand my wired network but I don't want to run more wires and I don't want to convert my existing computers to wirerless. Right now I have a cable modem, SMC router and running XP pro.

[cszeto]

Yes, you can mix multiple networking formations with the proper equipment and setup. The simplest route to what you are trying to accomplish is through the use of a wireless access point. It plugs into your router and then extends your network with wireless coverage.

You can also consider replacing your current router with a wireless one, most models also have ethernet ports for wired devices too. This may be the less expensive and just as easy route.

There are many threads across this forum on this subject and hardware reviews on the main site.

[BobG]

"wireless access point"

That sounds like something to look into. I wasn't sure there was something like that.

[BobG]

Well I just priced the access piont and with rebates it's cheaper to go with connecting a wireless router to my SMC router. Is that possible? Linksys 802.11b Wireless Networking Kit, $79 with rebates.

[cszeto]

If you go the wireless router option, it's easier to replace the existing router. One can perform an unsupported connection configuration that will render a wireless router into an access point, but you are on your own as the manufacturers typically will not support it. You can check around the different models to see if they will provide any wiring diagrams and setup guides to such a configuration.

There is one wireless router on the market that is supported to operate as an access point, I think it's the Microsoft 700 model. It's pretty widely available and priced in the same neighborhood as other wireless routers.