So confused... :(

[Jeriko]

Ugh - I'm used to figuring things out on my own but learning how to build a wireless home network has absolutely knocked me on my ass. 🙂

First let me explain the setup. I'm on a cable modem (Roadrunner), using a desktop. I want to share the connection, wirelessly, to a laptop I plan on using around the house. I prefer to keep my desktop wired (I'm not looking to make both wireless - just the laptop). I would also prefer not to spend a too much on this as it's not work related - just recreational.

Can someone please tell me everything I need to buy? 🙂 I figure I need a wireless router (one that still allows for wires if you want to use one) and a PCMCIA wireless NIC for the laptop. If I'm not right about this, don't be shy. But I could really use help with brands, models, etc. I don't know whether I should get a D-Link or Linksys, or if you can use a D-Link PCMCIA wireless card on with a Linksys router.

I've built an awful lot of computers but always stayed away from networking. Seems like such a hassle and the standards are just confusing. I would appreciate any help you all can offer me.

-J

 

[Tallgeese]

You are on the right track.

The only thing that can be hinky with wireless (in certain instances) is mixing and matching vendors. It's not ALWAYS a problem in every case, but certain advanced (read: proprietary) functions can make multi-vendor setups go whammo!

Roughly, here's how the vendors break down:
Cisco = TOP DOG, performance and $$$-wise
Orinoco = Good performance, price within reason
Linksys, D-Link, etc = Fair performance, bargain prices

Performance varies WIDELY depending on factors too numerous to list here.
Personally, I prefer the Orinoco.

Since you are on broadband, their RG-1000 Wireless Kit (w/ 1 PC Card) might work well for you. Unfortunately, this unit does not support extra wired connections by itself. You would need a secondary router for that, which tends to elevate the cost a bit. Still, the new pricing plus a SOHO router may still be cheaper than the untis made by Linksys, D-Link, etc.

HTH

 

[n0cmonkey]

<< You are on the right track.

The only thing that can be hinky with wireless (in certain instances) is mixing and matching vendors. It's not ALWAYS a problem in every case, but certain advanced (read: proprietary) functions can make multi-vendor setups go whammo! >>



Not doubting you, but can you provide links? Ive been wondering about that type of thing for a while and since Ive got the ibook and (if I can find one for a decent price) will have an x86 notebook in the near future, I dont want to screw myself by getting one setup or the other and see that they wont work together 😛



<< Roughly, here's how the vendors break down:
Cisco = TOP DOG, performance and $$$-wise
Orinoco = Good performance, price within reason
Linksys, D-Link, etc = Fair performance, bargain prices >>



SMC is included in the last section? Ive heard performance isnt all that great, but the hackability (hardware wise) is better than the others. Plus Id want the Prism II chipset on it 😉