Just got a Dell Inspiron 1521 for xmas gift. How do I set up internet service.?

Question

Dear Friends,
Although I am savvy on the net, I have no clue on how to set up my new computer for "legal" internet service. Do I need a router, a card, etc. My computer is "Wi-Fi" capable (whatever that means). Thanks so much.

Here's more details: i do not have computer at home so my notebook is my only computer. i guess i need a router and and internet provider. Thanks everybody for your quick response.

Answer 1

I'm not sure what you mean by "legal" internet service? But your Dell laptop should have a modem port (connector) and an ethernet connector in the back. To get internet service at home you need to look for a good ISP (Internet Service Provider) in your area that has the best price/service for what you want.

If you just check email you would probably only need a dial-up account. If you like watching videos online you would look for a broadband service either using DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) on your phone line or Cable Modem. (through your cable tv service)

If you're opting for high speed internet your new ISP will sell or rent you (depending on their plan) a modem which is a box that goes between your laptop and the phone line or cable coax to get you broadband internet.

Your laptop already has an ethernet connector in the back and has a wi-fi (wireless card) built in so depending on whether you want to surf the internet anywhere in your house or always have it near the modem would determine whether you would use the wi-fi or just plug the ethernet cable directly into the modem.

To be anywhere in your house with the laptop you would need a wi-fi (means Wireless Fidelity) router which is a box with 1 or 2 small antennas on it that you plug into the modem and it basically sends the wi-fi radio signals from your modem to your laptop and lets you surf the internet without plugging your laptop into an ethernet cable.

I hope this helps explain this somewhat.

Answer 2

I am assuming that you already have some kind of a high speed (broadband) Internet coming into your house - either cable or DSL. Normally those will come with a modem that has a network cable that attaches to your current PC.

You will need to purchase a wireless router (around $50 at Walmart). (You may also need to pick up a second network cable while you are there). Disconnect the network cable from the back of your current PC and connect that to the specially marked port on the router. Run the second network cable from any of the other ports on the router to your current PC. Then run the software CD that comes with the router to set up the router.

Once the router is set up, it will broadcast a wireless signal that your laptop can use to connect to the Internet from anywhere with about 150 feet of the router. IF you look in the control panel of the laptop you will find a Wireless Wizard icon. Once the router is set up, click on that icon and it will walk you through connecting to the wireless router. (You just have to tell it which signal to connect to if there is more than one it the area, and then the password - which you set during the earlier router setup).

Answer 3

Your computer probably comes with an internal modem.
You will need to sign up to an internet service that provides
dial-up. If you want, you can buy yourself a wireless modem which is compatible with your wireless computer. Then you have to connect up to a broadband service.

Some broadband services provide this modem and is paid for in the cost of the service.


I have a similar computer connected wirelessly to a speedtouch wireless modem. The computer talks to the modem wirelessly. I can use my computer within about a 300 foot radius of the modem. The modem is connected to the internet via the phone jack.

The broadband service I have is probably not available where you are. Do a google search on 'broadband service' and add the town/city you live in.
This should bring up a listing of local service providers.

Answer 4

Depends on what do you have around.
Do you have ISP high speed Internet service at home?
Yes, then your modem/router can work for you.
Start > Setting > Control Panel > Wireless Network Setup
Will lead you to complete the setup
Enjoy your New Laptop!

Answer 5

If you have broadband internet at home(not dial-up), you need a router. This is a box that sits between your internet and your computers and manages your home network. Usually if you have broadband internet (cable or DSL), the provider will give you a modem and router in the same box. It really depends on your current configuration to see what you need. Please add details.

Answer 6

You need to apply for internet through your Internet Service Provider (ISP) . Since you have Wi-Fi which is wireless technolgy, you can get yourself a wireless modem , or the modem it self.

Answer 7

if you want wireless internet get a wireless router.
if you only have one computer and you don't want wireless just plug the network cable from your modem straight into your computer

Answer 8

You are , very very KATRO..........
Course....that is the simple problem !?