So hands up who still hasn’t got a wireless network at home? Come on don’t be shy, we won’t laugh at you, honest. If you are someone who has got their hand up, isn’t it high time you got it sorted out? If you asked anyone who has a wireless network up and running at home, whether they want to go back to what they had before, the vast majority would decline. I for one can’t imagine living without a wireless network at home anymore. It means the whole family can access the internet from wherever they are in the house. Its very liberating! So here is the first of a number of posts that will take a look at hardware you need to get a wireless network up and running at home. BTW I am assuming here that you have broadband internet connection, because to really get the best out of your wireless network it is an essential prerequisite.

Wireless Adapter

First of all the device that you want to join to your wireless network, must have a wireless capability.

Even the least expensive of new laptops these days, like the good value Acer Extensa 4420-05058Ci Notebook will have a wireless capability already built in. For older laptops and desktop computers, which don’t have a built in wireless then you need to purchase a separate wireless adapter. I would recommend something like the Netgear WG111 Wireless Network Adapter which is simple to install, just plug into an available USB port.

For some old laptops with few USB ports a CardBus based adapter like the Belkin F5D7010uk Wireless G Notebook Card may be a better option. OK, so now we have the ability to connect to a wireless network. In another post we will look at the wireless access points you will need to create your wireless network.