Wireless networking with non-wireless router...

[Pastore]

Ive got a 4 port Linksys router. I have 3 computers right now, all connected to it. I am planning on buying a laptop and dont want to be tied down by wires. What are my options for going wireless with just one device? and what kind of prices are these options, and how is the speed, etc.

Thanks

 

[WarSong]

You can get a 802.11b Wireless Access Point. Almost all of the major home networking companies sell one (linksys, netgear, d-link, smc, etc.) They are a little cheaper than buying a wireless router. I think they retail for about $130 but you can find them cheaper. They are rated at 11Mbps like all 802.11b.

 

[Pastore]

oh ok so they hook into the RJ-45 just like cat5 then? $130 is a lot considering i could buy a 4 port wireless router for 30 bucks more...

 

[WarSong]

Yeah you just plug the wap into your router and it extends your connection to your wireless devices. Yes the router prices are dropping close to the wap's prices. I think they are trying to phaze them out or something. You can find some deals on them in the hot deals forum. I saw one in there for like $55 AR. Or maybe you can find something in the For Sale/Trade forum.

 

[JackMDS]

The content of the following link may help:

What do I need for wireless networking?

 

[mboy]

this is the answer to youre dilema:

WAP for $55 shipped after rebate

had my dad order it so I could hook it up to his Linksys router which is downstairs.

AND ordered a $55 SMC USB wireless card for her desktop

$110 for everything to get my little sis on my pops network at their house.

You just need a wireless PCMCIA card (orinco gold is what everyone reco's) and you are set.
I opted for the MUCH less expensive SMC over the Orinco for my SIS because a) I am paying for it b) she is only 12 and wont know the difference and c) she is on 28.8 dialup now so whatever part of my Dad's 5+Mb OOL connection she can get has to blow away her 28.8