Originally posted by: RandyH
I want to set up a simple wireless network between a desktop and lappy. I only have dialup internet. I am a total newbie, so I've got some questions.
1. Can I use just a wireless pci adapter in my desktop and a pcmia card in the laptop to set up the network, or do I need a router?
2. What exactly would I need to get a wireless network installed.
Thanks so much,
Randy
There are lots of answers to your questions ... this is my advice ...
Firstly, don't but a router. you don't need one, and it will cause unnecessary hassle configuring it.
Now, for the laptop ... if you are using the machine is a single location, and 802.11b (11Mbps) is sufficient, USB is an option. especially if you already have a full PCCard slots, and dont want the hassle of switching them. If you use keep moving the laptop around, then go PC-Card (technically, there are no PCMCIA based wireless cards, PCMCIA was replaced by PCCard ... apparently People Couldn't Memorize Computer Industry Acronyms ... sorry wanted to use that for a long time :-D)
Does your desktop already have a network card? Do you already have a hub and wired network? if so, then buy an accesspoint. This gives you the "structured" network which is always better :-D. If you have a hub, then just add the accesspoint to your hub.
If you don't have a network card in your desktop, or you want to go the cheapest solution, then buy a USB adapter for your desktop. It will be a lot easier configuring it than the PCI, doesn't require a slot etc... and has the ability to be moved to a location high up, for better signal to the laptop.
@shley
PS: a Router = AccessPoint + Hub + Extra Software