What are the costs of setting up a wireless home network as opposed to a wired home network?

Answer 1

A wireless network can be a little cheaper in terms of cabling, but the security risks are increased as a paerson does not need physical access to the network to access it they can be sat outside in a car with a wireless network receiver. So, security software such as Norton Internet Security or McAfee should be installed, and MAC address filtering used. This will only frustrate a ameteurish computer user, anyone with some skill could EASILY by pass this.

Wireless networks are now easier to set up as well as cheaper to buy the hardware, so there is little in place to stop you on that front, the conveniance of being able to use a laptop or notebook anywhere in the house is also a huge benefit. Cabling can become complicated and messy, and the whole network can go down if a wire is cut, snapped or tripped on etc depending on how you set up your network, a line or bus configuration is likely to be your option.

Answer 2

Well, the only difference is that the router you add to your network will require wireless capability. And the devices you used on the network (the computers, at least) have to be capable of wireless as well.

Answer 3

Just would like to add to what already said, router supporting WPA encryption and configured with extremely long key is practically unbreakable. Download and listen to audition # 10 and # 11 from this page:

http://www.grc.com/SecurityNow.htm

In regard to original question – difference of price between wireless and not wireless router (another words – not much).

Answer 4

Wired - $75

Wireless - $150

This is assuming that you will be using a Linksys router to connect two PCs to one internet connection. If you have a laptop, definitely go wireLESS. You'll love having the freedom to roam.

Answer 5

depends on the number of computers and if the already have wireless built in them but I'd say less than $100 difference but less hassle running wires in every room

Answer 6

$65 for the Linksys WRT54GS at Fry's. $50 each for the laptops that don't have WiFi built in. $40 for each PC for a pci card that does the WiFi thing. If you don't mind slower, 802.11b cards are dirt cheap and work with the WRT54GS. They only have WEP security though.

Saves drilling holes in the wall and stringing cable like I did ten years ago..