Wireless Internet

[cheater123]

Could somebody please tell me how to go about setting up wireless internet in my home. I think I have to get a wireless router and then something to plug into my computer or laptop to recieve it. Also could I get two reciever things and have my laptop and computer on the internet at the same time?

Do I have to change anything about the current internet I have or is it as simple as buying a router and reciever?

If this is correct please could you recommend a good router and reciever or whatever. Thanks

[Ethel]

Firstly, make sure you buy a router that is compatible with your broadband.
There are mainly two different types - one for cable such as telewest and NTL and one for BT. You will know which sort you have.

Your laptop may already be wi-fi enabled. If not you will need to buy a card to receive the signal put out by the router.
The same for the pc.

If your router is to be positioned by your desktop you could connect it directly to the router with an ethernet cable.

You can have several pcs/laptops connected wirelessly at the same time.

It wil be easier (theoretically) if you buy the same brand router and pc cards. You can often buy them as a set.

I found Linksys particularly easy to set up, and the wireless range is excellent - no deadspots anywhere in the house or garden.

Once you have installed it you must be sure to make it secure.

[cheater123]

OK thanks for your answer Ethel. So I do not need to contact my ISP or anything. Just set up and go?

[Ethel]

Just set up and go!

Who is your isp?

[cheater123]

It's (dreaded by many!) AOL! If you hate aol aswell please can you tell me what problems people have with it as Its been fine for me so far however ive only been with them 6 months.

[Ethel]

I was very happy with dial up AOL for years and only moved to telewest because I did not have the necessary BT phone line to get AOL broadband.

If you're happy with it - stick with it

I suggest you spend an hour at your nearest PC World or similar having a look at the routers and cards, take advice from the salesman, decide which one is best for you - then search the internet to make sure you can't get it a lot cheaper elsewhere.

Off the top of my head - Linksys or Belkin is recommended.

[cheater123]

Ok thanks very much Ethel you've been a great help :-)

[ferdie]

I would also recommend Linksys. I got their wireless router from tesco for �50 and it's been brilliant. I found this page useful when I did mine even though it's from microsoft!
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/moredone/wirel esssetup.mspx