Network - Wireless

A communications network that provides connectivity to wireless devices within a limited geographic area. "Wi-Fi" is the universal standard for wireless networks and is the wireless equivalent of wired Ethernet networks. In the office, Wi-Fi networks are adjuncts to the wired network. Wireless network can serve as the only network since all laptops and many printers come with Wi-Fi built in, and it can be added to desktop computers.

Wi-Fi LANs do not require line of sight between sender and receiver. Wireless base stations, called "access points," have antennas that transmit and receive a radio frequency within a range of 30 to 150 feet through walls and other non-metal barriers.

Wireless Network Setting Up

There are four main steps to setting up a wireless network in your home for Windows users: Purchase wireless components, connect the router, configure the router and configure your computers and potential other devices. It really is simple if you take the time to find the right hardware and follow the steps below, as well as do additional research for your particular set-up.

First and foremost, you will need a wireless router and wireless network cards for each of your computers. Many newer laptops and desktops come with wireless card built-in, but older computers will need cards to pick up a signal. Most home owners have their primary, most used computer, as the one the router is configured to and this can be hardwired if it is not mobile.

Most prefer to hardware their primary computer, just because it is easier that way. Most users also prefer to use matching hardware for all the computers in their home by staying with a trusted brand, such as Linksys, Netgear or D-Link. You can find these at any consumer electronics store or online for price ranges that fit within your price range.

There are many types of routers out there, once you pick one that will work with your modem and Internet connection, you will want to hook it up to your primary computer. Install the wireless network adapter, if you do not have one installed, and if you do, you can stick to the next step.

First, you will want to unplug your modem from the computer. Connect the router to the modem, it will com with all the necessary cables to do that. Plug the modem into the Internet port on the back of the router and once it works itself out, the lights should brighten to tell you it is picking up your Internet signal.

Network wireless adapter

A device that adds wireless connectivity to a computer or PDA. It is attached via a USB port, PC Card, memory card or is plugged into the PCI bus inside the computer. There are three types of wireless adapters: Wi-Fi, cellular and Bluetooth. Wi-Fi adapters provide wireless connectivity to the local area network (LAN). Typically plugged into laptops, they can also be installed in desktop computers for wireless connectivity throughout a home or office.

Wireless Router: Linksys

Linksys is one of the most popular brands of home network routers. Linksys wireless routers support all of the common types of home and small business network. Wireless-N products provide draft 802.11n capability, while Wireless-G products support 802.11g. A third category of product, dual-band routers, support more than one of the WiFi standards such as the Linksys Dual-Band Wireless A+G supporting both 802.11a and 802.11g. Within the above categories, some Linksys routers are designed for travel / mobility, some for VPN networking, and some for raw speed.