One DSL modem, 2 computers. How best to connect both computers?

Question

Can I connect WIFI to modem to service one computer and hard wire to other computer, or should I WIFI both computers?

Answer 1

It's probably cheaper to connect WiFi to one and hardwire to the other. But if you have the cash why not WiFi both and save the cash?

Answer 2

Yes, the device you want is a wireless router (with hardwire ports). You connect the DSL modem into the router...install some software and change settings (such as weather you would want your wifi network encrypted)....then connect the wired computer to the wired port, and go to the wireless computer search for the SSID (Network ID) try and connect to it, and type in your encyption key if you had one.

Weither you should make both computers "go wireless" is up to you, the network WONT be slower (unless your running a really kick *** fast internet connection) accessing the internet, the only difference you would notice (if at all) would be transfering files "in network" to computer to computer though the wifi connections between the 2 systems. Do the math yourslef, see how much it would cost for a cable to run to the hardwired computer, and then check out the prices on wifi adapters, i got mine for 10 bucks and 5 dollars shipping.

Answer 3

I have 2 computers hard wired to my WIFI router. Also I can connect WIFI to my notebook PC in another room. So I have my modem wired to my router, then the 3 computers connected either hardwire or WIFI. I can add 2 more hardwire connections and many many WIFI.
Hardwire gives a better quality connection than WIFI, plus it is more secure.

Answer 4

Best is to connect a router to the DSL modem, then connect the computers to the router. If you want to use WIFI only you could use a wireless router, then the access point. Its your call about connecting both computers wirelessly or not.

Answer 5

You will need something with routing capabilities. If you have a laptop with wifi, then you can get a 4 port wireless router. You can hard connect your desktop into one of the ports and go wireless with the laptop. If your DSL modem has the capability to hold your username and password to log into your account, then do not put it into your router and use the router as a dummy router. If you have to use software on your computer to log on, them make sure you buy a router that is compatible with your ISP authentication protocol and load your username and password into the router.

Answer 6

This depends on the location of your computers in relation to your modem. Wired connections are best because they are less succeptable to RF interference from other wirless networks, and other RF emitters (microwaves, cell phones, cordless phones... etc). Personally I only utilize wireless connections on mobile devices (laptops, PDA's) in order to utilize my connectivity while on the move in the home.
Currently broadband connections will not exceed wireless networking capabilities; however, if you plan to stream large video files or media files across your home backbone a wired solution is best.

Answer 7

buy a router with wifi, it will also have a few ethernet ports for a hard wired connection, you can do both wired and wireless wth most wifi routers.

Answer 8

Hardwire is going to be faster.

I run my laptop off wifi, a desktop off wifi because it is in a different room and I don't want to run a bunch of cables, and my server is hardwired.

Answer 9

Buying and using a home router would be easiest, and it happens to be most streamlined way; otherwise it is very technical to do otherwise.

Answer 10

get a router, only costs about 40 USD and you can go wireless with it