fallout1

Ok, here is the setup:
My parents have a single PC with a DSL modem(router?). We will have two additional computers coming and I want to setup a wireless network to share the broadband connection and prevent me having to wire the house. What exactly do I need? I know I could get something like the Linksys WRT54GS, a couple of USB adapters and have everything all-in-one. But can I set something up without having to discard the existing DSL modem? Like just add a wireless access point and a couple of adapters? I just am not clear on what is required..
Thanks in advance

ray

Do your parents have a DSL Modem only (1 connection) or were they given a DSL Modem/Router combination (allows for more than 1 connection)? I assume they were given just the DSL Modem. If that is the case, this is what you will need:

DSL Modem <---Already provided by ISP

Wireless Router <---Linksys, D-Link, SMC, Microsoft...there are a dozen brands you could pick and choose from, and there are 3 different standards. 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.1g. For a better explanation of the difference between the 3, click here

Wireless Cards <---Depending on the extra computers you will be adding to the home network, you will need either PCI Wireless Ethernet Cards (for desktops only), USB Wireless Network Adapters (for Desktops and Laptops) or PCMCIA Wireless Network Cards (for Laptops only)

DarkFury

Honestly, the best advice that I have for a wireless network with very good range and fast file transfers between computers can be found in this thread:

http://www.gotapex.com/forums/showthread.php?t=74040 (wifi and ethernet router???)

I personally recommend the Netgear WGT624 "Super G" router, and for each desktop go with the Netgear WG311T "Super G" PCI adapter or for notebooks go with the WG511T "Super G" Wireless card.

Right now, there is still like a $20 - $25 rebate on the router... if you look around. I bought mine for around $65... the adapters are gonna cost anywhere from $60 - $90 each (depending on where you shop), but honestly they are worth it.

In my wireless network, I am able to stream video, music and other files without having to "buffer" them first. Pretty much, if I don't have any 2.4 Ghz interference (i.e. the microwave oven on or the cordless/cell phones active) I can operate wirelessly close to the speed as the wired portion of my network operates.

Go view that link above for more details... If you get that setup, in the end, you will be quite happy. I know I was.

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