What do I need to set up a wireless connection to a normal computer?

Question

What do I need?
What is the best thing I should get?
What wireless card do you recommend me?
Do I need any service?
How do you set it?
Do I need to install a program before?
Do I have to do something before?
How long does it lasts?
How far do I have to be from the signal area?

Please help me!!

10 POINTS TO THE BEST!!!!!

Answer 1

If your computer already has a wireless card in it, you are good to go. If not, you need to get one. You have a few choices.

USB Adapter:
This is a horrible solution, and, IMO, should never be used. You will probably have problems getting all the drivers and such needed to make this work.

PCI Adapter:
This seems to be generally accepted as the best solution. The only major disadavantage is that you need to open your case to install it, but it is very easy and anyone should be able to do it with no problem. If you want to waste $40 or so, take it to your local computer store and have them do it.

Ethernet Adapter:
Though rather unpopular, this is my preferred solution. The major advantage is that you do not need to install any software on your computer, making it good if you have odd software setups (if you have one, you know). However, it is a pain to configure, and is a horrible solution if you have to switch networks very often, as you have to do it through a clunky web interface.


EDIT: Oh ya, you also need to a router to send out the signals if you do not already have one. That is easy though, just get one with whatever range you need. Don't worry (much) about the speeds unless you want to transfer files on your internal network.

Answer 2

Wow Novice Huh?
Here goes.
1. you still need an internet connection (unless your neighbor is kind enough to let you use theirs)
2. you need a wireless card and router. Your choice of brand. I'm most familiar with linksys but I have done d-link, cisco and sonicwall. For home use choose linksys it is very simple to setup.
3.Run the cd that comes with the router first. Set that up first.
4.Setup wireless security by using a wep key. The router will generate this for you. If you want you can restrict your wireless to a single network card or two.
5. Set an admin password on the router.
6. The wireless card then gets setup in your computer or laptop. Same thing on the computer as the router and use the wep key you generated before.
7.The wireless last as long as your hardware keeps going and you pay the internet bill.
8. Depends on your building how well the signal travels. Put the router at the highest point you can. 2nd floor (1st floor if you want to cover your basement. There are boosters you can buy and the newest N series is supposed to be better at penetrating walls. I get a good signal 40-50 feet away through walls. I have wood studs and drywall. If you have metal and concrete then you'll have a harder time.

Answer 3

I'll assume by "wireless connection" you mean a wireless internet connection.

What you need: A wireless router, and either a wireless USB adapter or a wireless PCI adapter. You're probably better off with the USB, because it's easier to install, and you can move it to another computer more easily.

You should get prodcuts from a good brand, such as Linksys, D-Link, or Netgear. Get one that supports 802.11g, or better wireless technology.

You need to install drivers for the wireless card, but that's about it. The only "service" you need is your internet service (I'm assuming you already have cable or DSL internet).

Distance from the signal area varies based on how much "stuff" (walls, etc) is between your computer and the router. I've found that 50 feet is as far as you can get without significant drawbacks. But some of the newer technologies (such as MIMO) have longer range.

Answer 4

just go to one of the computer stores in your area. start asking questions(just to get some ideas) when you have an idea whats available, then you can find out what you need, where to find it, how much it costs, ect. good luck