Help with setting up a wireless network.

[Corran]

I have recently ordered a 1mb adsl connection and wish to connect 2 computers to it seperatly.
I assume i have to do this using a router?
The thing is, i dont actually have a clue what to buy or do.
What do i need to do to connect 2 computers to a wireless router? is this possible? (The family dont really want cables running all over the place, and the 2 computers are on opposite sides of the house)
What sorts of hardware should i buy? (not to expensive).

[hiredpen]

Yes, you'll need a wireless router.

The best bet is 802.11b You can get an 802.11g, but they're a little more expensive and may be more than what you need right now.

I also recommend getting a USB wirless network adaptor for each computer that will not be sitting next to your cable modem/router.

Installing a card is too much work for the few $ you might save.

So, if neither computer will be located next to the router, you'll need two wireless network adapters. If one computer is next to the router, you can plug this one into the router with an ethernet cable and just buy one adapter for the other computer.

I normally recommend (but plenty of people to argue with me) router brand names in the following order: 1) SMC 2) Linksys 3) D-link 4) NetGear

Hope this helps

---------------------------------
Wireless Networking for Northern Virginia


Wireless Magik (http://www.wirelessmagik.com)

[JackMDS]

May be this can Help.

Link to: What do I need for wireless Networking? (http://www.anandtech.com/guides/viewfaq.html?i=122)
(Ignore the prices in the above link).

At the moment the best performance for the price is: D-Link Extreme G Bundle Kit ($87 after rebate). (http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=10344769&loc=101&sp=1)

Why?

Link to: 802.11a/b/g SOHO Routers & Access Points: Performance. (http://www.wi-fiplanet.com/reviews/CD/article.php/1585191)

Notice how the D-Link and Netgear Super G stick out above the Crowd.

Bundle=Wireless SuperG Router + matching PCMCIA Cardbus.

:D

[Corran]

Thanks folks :) the help is appreciated.
Going to be good to get away from this 56k.

[sunspots2002]

I too am young on this subject. You may want to have a look at my topic. As I have been trying to extend my wireless coverage in a wireless manner. I was too quick off the mark and bought Belkin (good brand and does the job). But going from one end of the house to the other gives me a very week signal. A signal that sometimes drops out, therefore no connection.

To improve the signal I thought of extending the wireless router signal by using a Access Point. However that only works if it is physically connected to the router port.

I have DLink has a product called a repeater or range extender. Also can be set up as a Access Point (don't know why you would want that if the repeater will do the job). The other solution is to buy another type of aerial to connect to the wireless router. Unfortunately, for me neither of these options will work on the Belkin.

So, take your time if you can and research.

Best of luck and it is great when it works. Plus the router gives you firewall protection from the outside world (supplement it with a PC firewall).

My topic link:
http://forums.practicallynetworked.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3385