Do I need a wireless broadband router?
Aug 15, 2005 | 9:38 am
#1
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Do I need a wireless broadband router?
If I want to go wireless, what kind of hardware (such as a wireless broadband router) do I need, and what kind of ongoing service plan? Is there a good wireless primer out there on the web? Thanks.
Aug 15, 2005 | 9:50 am
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Originally Posted by anonplz
If I want to go wireless, what kind of hardware (such as a wireless broadband router) do I need, and what kind of ongoing service plan? Is there a good wireless primer out there on the web? Thanks.
Be sure to set up security on your router to avoid any issues. Some routers have this functionality turned off as tyhe default and require you to change the settings to implement the firewall, password protection, access codes and the like.
Aug 15, 2005 | 9:51 am
#4
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Originally Posted by UAVirgin
Where are you trying to go wireless; home, office, road? What are you trying to do; voice, internet access?
Aug 15, 2005 | 10:08 am
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Assuming you already have internet access (DSL/Cable) a Wireless Router would be the way to go. As MBM3 says the Wireless G routers are very inexpensive. I just purchased a D-Link DI-524 Wireless G router for $19 after rebate at eCost. A card for my laptop was $7. Install is quite easy, just follow the directions.
Aug 15, 2005 | 10:45 am
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Originally Posted by UAVirgin
Assuming you already have internet access (DSL/Cable) a Wireless Router would be the way to go. As MBM3 says the Wireless G routers are very inexpensive. I just purchased a D-Link DI-524 Wireless G router for $19 after rebate at eCost. A card for my laptop was $7. Install is quite easy, just follow the directions.
Quality stuff = SMC Networks, Zyxel, and Cisco
-Vincent
Aug 15, 2005 | 11:19 am
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Cisco does own Linksys. My preference is Linksys gear, but I tend to go with the cheapest these days (with the same feature set). Cisco gear is nice, if you want/need to have total control and know the OS. Otherwise the major consumer brands work just fine.
Aug 15, 2005 | 11:24 am
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Intertex from Sweden is great. Let me know if you want to buy some in the US. Go to www.intertex.se
Aug 15, 2005 | 11:36 am
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Originally Posted by anonplz
If I want to go wireless, what kind of hardware (such as a wireless broadband router) do I need, and what kind of ongoing service plan? Is there a good wireless primer out there on the web? Thanks.
http://www.wi-fi.org/OpenSection/secure.asp?TID=2
If you are on the road, T-Mobile (hot spots) tend to be a bit more prevalent in airports/lounges/Starbucks, etc. and you need to sign up on either a per use/month/year plan - you can also use a card from your cell company for dial up.
Aug 15, 2005 | 11:44 am
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Thanks for all the replies! 
What's up with linksys and netgear, etc.? Is this an aversion borne of experience with cheap hardware, or do they have bad reputations or what?
Originally Posted by vincom
I wouldn't touch D-Link, Linksys, and Netgear with 20 foot poles or if you gave it to me for free.
Quality stuff = SMC Networks, Zyxel, and Cisco
-Vincent
Quality stuff = SMC Networks, Zyxel, and Cisco
-Vincent
Aug 15, 2005 | 12:17 pm
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Originally Posted by anonplz
What's up with linksys and netgear, etc.? Is this an aversion borne of experience with cheap hardware, or do they have bad reputations or what?
Aug 15, 2005 | 12:29 pm
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Originally Posted by anonplz
Thanks for all the replies!
What's up with linksys and netgear, etc.? Is this an aversion borne of experience with cheap hardware, or do they have bad reputations or what?
What's up with linksys and netgear, etc.? Is this an aversion borne of experience with cheap hardware, or do they have bad reputations or what?
For day to day use pretty much any brand will serve you well.
Aug 15, 2005 | 12:51 pm
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Originally Posted by ScottC
For day to day use pretty much any brand will serve you well.
Aug 15, 2005 | 12:53 pm
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Originally Posted by UAVirgin
I have Linksys (Router/VoIP), Netgear (Switch), and D-Link quipment (WiFi/Bluetooth) and am happy with all of it. For me, it comes down to price at the time I need something.