Internet wireless router?

Question

One of our classrooms has no internet connection. To hook it up will cost us a fortune. Can we use a router instead? The modem is connected to our server (windows 2003). How many computers can we connect to a router and how far will the signal go? Thank you.

We're a very small school. Teachers will be using the desktop computers and they are all added to our server.
The IT company that was taking care of the hook ups charge way too much. A router would be a cheap way to solve our problem.

Answer 1

There are a lot of things to consider here -- are the people who use your classroom internal to your company, or from outside your company? Are you trying to use laptops, or are you using lab computers that will be permanently in that room? How are you going to use the internet for your training?

You may want to connect with someone in your local ASTD (American Society for Training and Development) chapter who has experience in your area to help you get something like this set up.

Answer 2

From your provided info, it appears as though the modem connects to the Win 2003 server and the server is functioning as a router for the downstream computers now.

Here is what I would consider

1. Run one CAT5 line from the network switch to the classroom you wish to provide connection.
2. Purchase a wireless access point or a wireless router. An access point does not have the ability to do NAT. If you use a router, turn off NAT and DHCP - let the Windows Server do this for you so all devices can access the server.
3. BE SURE TO ACTIVATE ALL SECURITY STEPS or you will collect hackers like honey collects flies.
4. I would consider mounting the wireless device in the ceiling (above it if you have a drop ceiling).
5. You will need 120 v AC power for this wireless device unless you purchase one that runs on Power over Ethernet (PoE). PoE devices use the CAT5 for power and they require a PoE Injector between network switch and the CAT5 line. A single PoE is about $40 - a lot less than running a 120 V line if you need to run one.
6. You can run several LAN devices from a single wireless point; I presume you need no more than about 30 anyway. If you use a router and activate DHCP and have a separate subnet (this will be an issue accessing the server however), you can drive up to 254 LAN devices.
7. Wireless g range is about 250 ft in open air; less if it has to penetrate thick walls. Metal linings (e.g. duct), masonry wall, etc can block wireless signal.
8. Remember all devices ultimately access the common internet feed; if you add a lot of users, it may bog down the internet feed line.
9. LAN devices include pcs, printers, etc. Each LAN device will need a wireless access module as well. Notebooks often come with them BUT desktops, printers, etc do not.

I cannot over state the importance of the security for wireless. If you address all of these points you should have a workable system.

Answer 3

A small school would probably need just a Linksys wireless G or Belkin router.

http://www.amazon.com/Linksys-WRT54G-Wireless-G-Router/dp/B00007KDVI

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006698SS/ref=dp_cp_ob_title_1/103-3071103-4608629