Wireless network setup -- need advice!

[PolPot]

I'm waiting for my Dell SmartStep 200N notebook to arrive and I'm thinking about doing wireless networking at home (I have three desktops, cable modem, and hub currently). What is the minimum that I need to have for an 802.11b network? Do I need an access point or simply a PCI card for one of my desktops and a PCMCIA card for my notebook? If I only need cards, is there some advantage to be gained by going with an access point? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Fatt]

Well, you're going to need a wireless PC card to stick into your notoebook.

You're also going to need something to "plug" it into. In other words, something for the wireless card to talk to.

There is more than one way to do what you want but what I'm going to recommend is that you get a wireless router.

I just did a 5 second search on a Netgear MR314, which is what I happen to use and I cam up with a range of $117 - $158. I also know I've seen them for $99.

I generally suggest that if you live in a place that has a population density high enough that neighbors and wardrivers can get your wireless signal that you disable DHCP and set up static routes. Your network will work the same but the router wont go handing out IP addresses like they're candy.

 

[rw120555]

See What do I need for wireless networking?

I would get a router + WAP or wireless router. With the router, at least one PC (maybe more) can be connected via cable (you'll need a cheapie NIC) and won't require a separate wireless card. (In fact, I'd recommend a router even if you weren't now planning to add wireless; see Basic Options for Internet Connection Sharing Why don't you look at the FAQs and if you still have Qs followup from there.