Going from wired to wireless network?

[olds]

Thinking about taking the plunge since my router died. I have a cable modem, 3 desktops and a laptop on the network. I need a print server (built into the dead router) and obviously a router.
Are there wireless routers/print servers available that I can plug into my existing modem via Cat 5 or do I need a "Wireless Access Point" (<-- that's the confusing part to me).
I assume all I need after that point are wireless nics for the machines?
Should I buy all the same brand of equipment?
TIA

 

[Wintermute76]

I set up a wireless network last week. I got the linksys wireless B starter kit (wireless AP/router and PCMCIA card) and a couple of wireless USB adapters. They have a wireless print server also I believe.

the cable modem goes to the internet port on the router, my main PC is cabled to one of the 4 router ports. then the laptop and 2 other PC's are wireless. Was pretty easy to set up. the wireless access point provides a wireless interface on my otherwise wired network.

Hope it helps 🙂

 

[Angrymarshmello]

Are there wireless routers/print servers available that I can plug into my existing modem via Cat 5 or do I need a "Wireless Access Point" (<-- that's the confusing part to me)

Generally, you'd buy an access point if you're setting up multiple wireless access points in your house, or you already have a wired modem but just need a way to go wireless. (Configuring 2 routers to co-exist with each other is a B1TCH!!) Since you need all new stuff you'd probably just get a wireless router

I assume all I need after that point are wireless nics for the machines?
Should I buy all the same brand of equipment?

Yes. You'd need a wireless pc card, (laptop) and a couple wireless pci access cards (or USB adapters). Depending on how far away those 3 desktops are from your wireless router, and depending on how many walls is between them, and if the computer case itself is in an enclosed area, you might be better off with a wireless USB adapter. Relatively close to the router and/or sitting on top of a desk not in a corner, a wireless PCI card would work, but generally for the best reception if far away or if the case is in an enclosed area, a USB adapter would be a much better solution.

A lot of people say the same brand is better - however, my cousin had tons of problems getting a USB Linksys adapter working with his Linksys WAP (never did get it to work). I personally have a Siemens USB adapter and a Microsoft MN500 Wireless Router which works great togother. One would think that theoretically, it would configure/work better since it's the same brand, but I don't think it really makes that large of a difference.

*awaits JackMDS to enter thread in 3......2........1......... 😉

 

[JackMDS]

LOL 321................


On Wireless:

802.11b vs. 802.11g.

For Internet surfing it does mot matter since Internet broadband connection is slower than 802.11b

For traffic across Internal LAN, 802.11g is significantly faster.

General Wireless info.

802.11b = 11Mb/sec. Network "Speed" (Carrier transmission 2.4GHz)
802.11g = 54Mb/sec. Network "Speed" (Carrier transmission 2.4GHz)

Wireless Ethernet needs additional protocol over head for the transfer. In addition, it is not as stable as Wired so it needs extra processing procedures.

As a result the 11Mb/sec. of the Network chipset is translated to a much lower actual performance. Usually 4-6Mb/sec.

Few 802.11b hardware units are also capable to work at 22Mb/sec.(usually referred to as b+) it is nice if it works, in real term will yield 20%-40% more than 11Mb/sec. systems.

The 802.11g line that is rated 54Mb/sec. in the real world it yields 18-22Mb/sec.

The differences between the first set of graphs to the second represent the performance differences between 802.11b to 802.11g

Link: 802.11a/b/g SOHO Routers & Access Points: Performance


The following collection of links might help.

Ignore the prices in the links bellow. The same or similar hardware can be found for 60%-90% less.

Link: AnandTech - FAQ. What do I need for wireless Networking?

Link: Wireless Cable/DSL Router or Access Point - What should I get?

Link: Wireless Network - Configuration Modes.

Link: Wireless Security for the Home User.

Link: Wireless Network Troubleshooting,

Link: How do I use a Wireless Cable/DSL Router as a Switch with an Access Point?

What should I get.

Networking in General is no CPU OverClocking or "squeezing" few frames from a "puny" Video card, it is more complicated.

The number of variables that goes into the equation of each situation is so variant that it is impossible to give one rule of thumb.

If the Wireless Computer is going to be used in the vicinity of the Wireless Gateway, and you are going for 802.11b buy the cheapest you can find. You can get a Wireless Cable/DSL Router for about $29.99 + PCMCIA card for $9.99 (both after rebate).

Example:

Link: Barricade 11Mbps Wireless Cable/DSL Broadband Router with 4 Port. $29.99 (after rebate).

Link: EZ Connect 802.11b Wireless PCMCIA Network Adapter. $9.99 (after rebate).

If you go with 801.11g get a set from D-Link or Linksys. Both seem to be at the top of the current rather limited "crop" of 802.11g Entry Level hardware.

If you are going for 802.11b and long distance is a must, it is a very long story and I am not going to try analyzing it here.

Printer server on sale at CompUSA this week.

Link: PS101NA Mini Print Server. $49.00 after rebate.

If you go for 802.11b, search around may be you will find SpeedStream 2624, or an Old SMC Barricade Wireless. They both are decent Wireless Cable/DSL Routers with Printer Server build in..

 

[olds]

Thanks for all the input. Very thorough