If you buy a wireless laptop and it says out of the box ready does that mean you still need a wireless?

Question

connection? and or a router? Im sorta confused I want to use a laptop at work but am unsure I will be able to because I have nothing but a couple regular outlets to plug a laptop in but no phoneline access? any help/advice highly appreciated.

Answer 1

You need an internet service provider in order to have internet access. Either Wireless or wired, you still have to have an ISP. Exception: If you live in certain areas, a Wifi will be provided. Some examples are many colleges provide a wifi, many airports have a wifi, and even many resteraunts provide a wifi (wireless internet service), such as Panera Bread, for one. So if you live near enough, you can pick up that signal, and use the internet, but you need their permission. Your neighbor, too, may have a wifi, and he may/may not let you use it.

Answer 2

I just purchased a laptop and I have dsl which is hooked up through the phone line. the company you want your internet service from will provide you with a kit that contains filters, cords, and a router which plugs into the computer. You must request a wireless modem so you don't have to plug anything into your laptop and you can then move around with it, My wireless modem ran me about 95 dollars and they split it up in payments on my bill for me., the modem that comes with the kit was free but like I said, you have to plug that into the wall and it connects to your computer and you are stuck in one room which defeats the purpose of a laptop. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

I would ask your IT folks at work if you will be able to use a PC you dragged in from home. In any case, you may at least need their permission to use it at work.

After you have their permission, they should be able to explain to you any other requirements that you may need.

As for using it at home, you will need, at a minimum in additon to your wireless-ready laptop:

1. An internet connection
2. A wireless router or access point

Answer 4

Wireless is a convenience. It is a waste of time for working because it has about 1/3 the bandwidth of wired.
You still need a WAP (wireless access point) to connect to and use the wireless card on the laptop.
Many business provide free (and unsupported) wireless access to their customers AS A CONVENIENCE.

Answer 5

Yes, you're going to need a router that has a wireless signal option, unless your neighbor has a wireless router and you want to steal their connection...