Guide To Wireless Broadband - Part 3 of 7

Many users are reluctant to join the wireless revolution because they fear that setting up a home network will be difficult. However, it is actually straightforward. Though you should always follow the instructions that come with your wireless router, as each system may have slight differences, here is a general overview of how to set up a wireless connection.

Quick Links:

• Part One – What is wireless broadband/wireless networking?
• Part Two – What are the pros and cons of wireless broadband?
• Part Three – How do you set up a wireless connection?
• Part Four – What is Wi-Fi and how does it work?
• Part Five – Wireless broadband jargon buster
• Part Six – Top tips for a better wireless experience
• Part Seven – Where can you get wireless broadband?

How do you set up a wireless connection?

The first thing you need is a wireless router. There are many broadband providers that now offer wireless routers free as part of a package or at a reduced cost. Click on our broadband comparison tool to find out more.

This device is then plugged into the phone line and acts as the ‘hub’ of the wireless network – it is from here that all of the radio waves are sent to the other computers in your home/office space.

There are two main types of wireless router available – 802.11b, and the faster 802.11g, which can transmit data at 54Mbps, although there are also enhanced versions available which manufacturers claim can send and receive data at 125Mbps. You can also buy HomeRF products which are cheaper, but limited to around 1.2Mbps. Wireless router companies include D-Link, Netgear, Belkin, Linksys and Buffalo.

From there, every computer or device, such as a laptop, that you wish to connect to the wireless network will require a wireless network card. The majority of new laptops have these built in – but any computer or device that doesn’t come with a wireless network card, will need one installing. They are relatively cheap to buy and installation is usually straightforward – you simply follow a series of instructions on your screen, as you would do with any programme. However, you must be careful to buy a wireless network card that will function alongside your router. Make sure they are compatible! In most cases it is best to buy a network card from the same manufacturer that provides your wireless router.

Another easier option is to buy a wireless USB kit, you still get a router as before but rather than putting a wireless data card into your laptop or PC you slot a wireless USB adapter into a USB port instead.

Once set-up is complete, the broadband connection enters via the phone line into your router, which then makes the internet connection wireless and sends a signal around the house.

Of course the key factor, to avoid frustration at a later stage, is to remember that your wireless router has a limited range, depending on how powerful it is – the more expensive the router, the more likely it is to have a wider range. Your service could be interrupted if you have thick walls or areas in your home that the wireless connection simply can’t reach.

Guide to Wi-Fi technology – Part 4 >>>

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