What do I need to get WiFi?

Question

My laptop is wireless but my home is not. I don't have a desktop computer anymore. What do I need to do get my wireless laptop hooked up to the internet at home? [Aside from going to the library, Panera Bread, Borders].

Should I upgrade my cable to include internet? Since I don't have a regular desktop will that affect my laptop? Will I need to buy a desktop, router, purchase DSL or internet cable? What about using a wireless card from T-Mobile or Verizon (my laptop already has wireless card)?

Yes I am confused! Thank you in advance!

Answer 1

You can get cable internet or dsl and plug a wireless antenna such as Linksys into the modem.

Answer 2

You'll need a broadband connection - DSL or Cable (I prefer cable - it is faster, especially when you talk wireless) - once you have the broadband connection - you will need a wireless router. I am not a big fan of Netgear products - I prefer Linksys - try Tigerdirect.com they are one of the cheapest:

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=628108&Sku=L48-2230

You will run an Ethernet cord (it comes included with your DSL/Cable modem & the Router - so don't worry - you will have enough) from the DSL/Cable modem to the connection marked 'Internet' on the back of the router (it comes with easy to use instructions) - From the '1' slot on the back of the router - run a second ethernet cable to your PC (when you get one - but this is not required - skip this step since you do not have a PC) - after it is all together - start everything up and you should have a wireless connection (if you are using Windows XP - the system will tell you there is a connection available - if you are using a different system - follow the instructions that come with the router).

You are now wireless! Have fun!

Answer 3

First, check with your phone company and/or cable provider if they have a plan that includes a DSL/cable modem that has WiFi incorporated. They might even include it at no cost, and they would provide tech support to set it up. This would be the easiest and cheapest solution.

You get DSL from your phone line, you only need a special splitter (filter) to hook a modem and a regular phone (so you can still talk). Everything should be provided by the ISP provider.

You get Internet cable from your cable TV vendor.

Both technologies are fine, cable can be faster, but you must be aware that bandwith is shared with your neighbors. At peak times, cable can get slower than phone DSL, which has a dedicated line so its speed is more stable.

Call your DSL & cable companies and choose the plan which is best for you in terms of cost, services (like e-mail, free antivirus software, free personal webpage, bonus software, customer support, etc.) and what they include for the initial set up.

If your laptop already has WiFi, you shouldn't need a wireless card, they all must comply with 802.11b/g standard.

You don't need a desktop at all to get WiFi.

Hope this helps.

Answer 4

What you need is a wireless router such as Belkin or Linksys. If not you can connect to neighbours which really isnt a smart thing because of privacy. You should visit best buy and see what they recommend. You will still need a internet connection to plug your router to. The Geek Squad at Best Buy sometimes does free setup or charges a small fee.