Posted: 11/29/2005 12:59:27 PM EDT
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I'm considering setting up a wireless home network. I have 2 desktop units that currently have no network set up, but have a LAN port on the motherboard. I also have a laptop with a wireless card in it. I'd like to set it up so multuiple computers can share the internet connection and maybe do some minor game playing across the LAN. Suggestions? Cheap and simple, much like myself, is the order of the day. |
| Whatever you can conveniently network with cabling, you should. Cables are cheaper and more reliable and more secure, and you won't have to install a wireless NIC or adaptor on any wired computers. Wifi can sometimes drop signal without warning or appearant cause in my experience. And choose a good central location for the router, so if you move around with the laptop you won't have to fear going out of range. |
The wireless is very handy, but a big +1 to go with cable when you can. |
OK, so the router will be hooked to the main or "server" pc and the NIC will go on the second PC, correct? Any additional software needed? Are there any hardware manufacturers to stay away from? Any that you heartily recommend? THANKS! |
The router will have one WAN port that goes to your cable or DSL modem. They typically have a built in 4-port switch. Your wired PC will connect into one of these 4 LAN ports. The wireless computer will need a wireless NIC. You don't need any additional software other than the drivers/client manager that will come with your wireless card. Equipment from any of these mfgs will be fine: Netgear D-Link Linksys Belkin Buffalo Not to say that others wouldn't work... Let me know if I can help you further. |