Wifi for numptys

highwayman · 26-08-2007, 09:47 AM

Hi folks
I hope someone can help.
Our boys are going to get their own laptops and we're hoping to get and
set-up a wifi system so they can use our broadband connection without
tying-up our computer.
So the questions are,
How do you make the wifi secure?
What's the differance between the expensive and cheap routers?
Will a cheap router service two laptops and a pc at the same time?
Can you keep the explanations simple

thanks in advance

regards......nige

ksebruce · 26-08-2007, 09:52 AM

Hi, get the fastest router you can afford. Making it secure is fairly easy, there should be instructions with the router. On mine I had to got to a website for my router (Belkin) where there was a "wizard" which was easy to follow. Once you decide which type of security you want and input the number into your computer/laptop you don't have to do this again (unless you want to allow another computer access).

Jim · 26-08-2007, 09:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by highwayman

Hi folks
I hope someone can help.
Our boys are going to get their own laptops and we're hoping to get and
set-up a wifi system so they can use our broadband connection without
tying-up our computer.
So the questions are,
How do you make the wifi secure?

Almost all routers will have security built in, you may have to turn it on, most routers are controlled via a webpage that they generate, it is really simple to set the passwords.

What's the differance between the expensive and cheap routers?

Range, if you want to use the Wifi in the garden, or have a and cottage with two foot thick stone walls then go for the more powerful ones which are marked "G" or "Pre N" (I think).

Will a cheap router service two laptops and a pc at the same time?

Yes, easily.

Can you keep the explanations simple

I've done my best

thanks in advance

Don't mention it

regards......nige

I am no expert on this stuff, and If I have got anything wrong I am sure that someone will be along sharpish to let you know

johnsandywhite · 26-08-2007, 03:32 PM

This might help:- http://www.squidoo.com/wifinetwork

Rob · 29-08-2007, 12:39 AM

Hi, Nige

You'll need to make sure the wi-fi router is compatible with your ISP (e.g. AOL and NTL / Virgin might need special versions), and that it has wired connections. They nearly always have these so you can set them up.

I use a Netgear DG834G - you can even buy it from Amazon in the UK. It's very good, and reliable. We often have 2 wired PCs and 3 wireless laptops hung off it. No problems.