How do I set up a wireless network at home?
I just got a laptop and I want to use the internet without plugging in an ethernet cable. My friend says I need a wireless router. I have a cable modem. How does this work? Is it secure — can my neighbors see what I'm doing? What's the difference between 802.11b and 802.11g?
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Here's the basic setup: 1) Buy a wireless router (I recommend the Linksys WRT54G, about $60). 2) Connect the router to your cable modem with an ethernet cable. 3) Plug in the router and connect to it wirelessly from your laptop. 4) Open the router's setup page (usually 192.168.1.1) in a browser. 5) IMPORTANT: Enable WPA encryption and set a strong password. Without encryption, your neighbors can see everything you do online.
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Here's the basic setup: 1) Buy a wireless router (I recommend the Linksys WRT54G, about $60). 2) Connect the router to your cable modem with an ethernet cable. 3) Plug in the router and connect to it wirelessly from your laptop. 4) Open the router's setup page (usually 192.168.1.1) in a browser. 5) IMPORTANT: Enable WPA encryption and set a strong password. Without encryption, your neighbors can see everything you do online.
One thing people forget: after setting up WiFi, you should update the router's firmware. Manufacturers release updates that fix security holes and improve performance. Go to the Linksys support website, download the latest firmware for your model, and upload it through the router's admin page. Also, Linksys routers support third-party firmware like DD-WRT that adds tons of features.
Get 802.11g, it's the current standard. Yes, your neighbors could technically snoop if you don't set up encryption. Cordless phones on 2.4 GHz can cause interference — if you have one, either get a 5.8 GHz phone or place the router away from the phone base. Microwaves can also cause interference. Position the router centrally in your house for best coverage.
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