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| | | Assuming you already have Internet access at home -- possibly through a DSL or cable modem -- the first thing you need is a wireless router to connect to your modem. | | |
| Typical costs: | - A 802.11g wireless router can cost $30-$120 depending on how fast it can go (54Mbps / 108 MBps) and its range. Wireless routers also enable multiple computers to access the Internet from one DSL or cable modem. Examples include the Netgear WGR614 which can be found for as little as $25, the Linksys WRT54GL (a midrange router), and the D-Link RangeBooster N Router (to travel longer distances or go through walls).
- In a typical configuration, a wireless router and a wireless PCI card or laptop card can cost $45-$130, depending on the speed and range. Examples include the D-Link Wireless Network Kit and the Netgear WGB511 802.11g Wireless Networking Kit.
- Many laptops purchased within the last two years already include a card that will enable them to access a wireless network.
- Tip: it may be helpful to buy the router and PCI or PCMCIA cards from the same manufacturer and line to make sure they work with each other.
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| What should be included: | - The router should include the additional network cable to connect it to a cable or DSL modem.
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| Additional costs: | - If you have several thick walls or floors between the wireless router and the computers that will be connecting to the router, you may need a model at the upper end of the range, such as RangeMax, which is advertised as working through more materials over greater distances.
- If the router and computers that will be connecting to the router are separated by long distances (typically over 100') or need to pass through impenetrable walls, you may need additional routers or base stations to boost the signal along the way.
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| Discounts: | - Purchasing an older generation model (such as a 54Mbps router instead of an 108Mbps one) may be a good value, especially if the router will be fairly close to the computers.
- If you need to buy multiple pieces, such as a router and a PCI card, or a router, PCI card and PCMCIA card, you may save money buy purchasing all 2-3 pieces in one box.
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| Shopping for a wireless network: | - For an inexpensive router only, the Netgear WGR614 is available at many electronics shops, such as: Amazon.com and J&R Computer World.
- For a midrange router only, the Linksys WRT54GL is available at many electronics shops, such as: Amazon.com, BestBuy.
- For a high-end router that boosts the signal, the RangeBooster N Router is available at many electronics shops, such as: Amazon.com and BestBuy.
- For a kit, the Netgear WGB511 Network Kit is available at many electronics shops, such as: Amazon.com and a similar model at J&R Computer World.
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Article updated November 2006 |
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