Wireless/Wired Network Help

[bad_back]

Hi all,

I'm looking for some advice on expanding my current wired network to include a wireless solution. I'm a complete novice as far as wireless is concerned and am confused as to what I require to get my network connected.

I currently have 2 computers (XP & FreeBSD) and a HP Laserjet 4 Plus connected to a Linksys BEFSR41 wired router which connects to Broadband Internet via a Motorola SB3100 modem. This is situated upstairs in the 'office'. I am adding another computer downstairs to feed to the TV and would also like to share my existing network resources. I intend to move the Internet connection downstairs too thus eliminating the length of coax travelling around my house.

What should I buy? I've read a few sites and guides but am getting a little confused by all the different devices available.

My initial thoughts are to purchase a wireless router for downstairs connecting the computer via wire since it will be a few feet away. Upstairs to have a Wireless Access Point connected to my existing wired router. This should negate the need to reconfigure the existing network which is setup with static IPs.

Is this correct or are there better solutions? Also, what equipment do you recommend. I was thinking along the lines of the Linksys WRT54G-UK and WAP54G-UK. They are fairly cheap and seem quite popular.

Your advice greatly appreciated.

Mike

[cszeto]

You are pretty close with the proposed arrangement, but here are some points to consider:

- It's a wireless bridge, not access point if you intend to share the wireless access across multiple ethernet devices, some access points can double as bridges
- If you put two NAT routers in-line with each other, you are creating two NAT networks, which may create challenges towards sharing networking resources between the networks.

[bad_back]

Thanks cszeto,

I've just taken a look at the Linksys WAP54G datasheet and it does bridging so that's a start. The Install guide also has a network diagram describing a similar setup as I'm proposing too so it looks like I'm on the right track:)

[cszeto]

Good deal.

[bad_back]

HI,

Just thought I'd let you all know that my network is up and running. Internet connection on all machines, I just need to set up file sharing and I'm done :)

Set the WAP54G as a bridge to the WRT54G wireless port MAC and viola !

On reflection I suppose I should have got a wireless bridge but it's working that's the main thing.

Thanks,
bad_back

[cszeto]

You're probably fine with what you have in place. The pricing between wireless bridges and wireless routers with bridging functionality is pretty haphazard at best. You might have saved some money by going the route that you have. The main thing is that you have the right equipment to accomplish what you intended and it works!