Should I go wireless? Computer guys, I need your help

[djconn]

I've been contemplating getting a wireless router for my desktop pc but don't want to lose any bandwidth in the process. I'm trying to split up two pcs in two different rooms but I don't want to run cat5 cable through the whole house. So question is - will I lose any speed by using a wireless router on my desktop pc? Any lingering security issues?

 

[Vafik]

No you wont loose any single going wireless. I sends data faster then your isp comes in to the house. Theres three diff types of wireless. I think it goes A B and G. I think the A is the most secure, it would be something you would use in an apartment building. Has a more secure singnal and is harder for other ppl to pick up. But I think the range isnt that great with them. You could get a single booster though. Just look into it alittle bit. You can also set up passwords to connect to your network. You wont be unhappy with a wireless system.

 

[incysor]

All routers whether a b or g will come with software that allow you set passwords, so you can lock your neighbors out...Use it.

I had a friend that got surveiled for 3wks before the FBI came knocking on his door with a search warrant for his computer. They didn't even take his computer, just checked it out, and advised him to lock his network down. Turns out a neighbor was picking up on his wireless network, and downloading child porn. It wasn't that big a deal for my friend, but it was bit of a hassle...Could have been a major problem though if he'd been one of my friends in college and had paraphanalia laying around when they came in. 8)

B

 

[incysor]

Oh...Here's a quick overview of ABG....

http://tech2.nytimes.com/mem/technology ... A9629C8B63

There are relatively inexpensive tri-band wireless routers out. I'd go with one of those if possible. It just gives you a bit more flexibility/reliability.

B

 

[n3m3ss1s]

dj if you don't share information between computers then you won't notice a difference. Just get G technology since it is downward compadible(it works with other technologies) and its becoming cheaper since N is coming out soon. Also G has a tendency to get signal with greater distance depending on the brand. Personally I prefer netgear or linksys. Most broadband connections are no more than 4mb. G can handle 54 technically but to be realistic it is more like 30 depending on range.

 

[n3m3ss1s]

Also, for security just use WEP and mac addressing. Those two should secure your wireless network.

 

[djconn]

Thanks guys, I'll look into a G type wireless setup this weekend. Please let me know if you happen to see any good deals online or elsewhere.

 

[dragon79]

Thanks guys, I'll look into a G type wireless setup this weekend. Please let me know if you happen to see any good deals online or elsewhere.

compusa or frys is a good start I setup a d-link wireless router and wireless network card for my boss and i got to play with the security and all that fun stuff. Very secure and easy to use. I haven't made the jump yet, but may in the future, especially if I get a centrino laptop

 

[djconn]

Okay, I picked up a wireless G router and pci card today. I'm still hesitant to open everything up though.

Are you guys sure I won't notice a difference in web-browsing speed? I'm scared that things will be much slower.

I won't be sharing information with my other computer or anything.

I need some reassurance...web speed is very important.

 

[dragon79]

Okay, I picked up a wireless G router and pci card today. I'm still hesitant to open everything up though.

Are you guys sure I won't notice a difference in web-browsing speed? I'm scared that things will be much slower.

I won't be sharing information with my other computer or anything.

I need some reassurance...web speed is very important.

Are you kidding me dj? This is the fun part! Put it together in pride! For the most part, you will not experience loss in bandwidth. It's not like you are enclosed in lead walls are you? hehe. Even if for any reason you were experiencing loss of bandwidth/signal, you could just get a signal booster to make your connection stronger, but in this case I very hardly doubt it. Go for it man!

 

[djconn]

Since it was raining here all weekend, I decided to stay around the house and got the wireless up and running. I'm not sure why I was nervous because it was really easy and inexpensive for the most part. Its just as fast for web-browsing and I've taken all the necessary security measures. I'm very happy with it.

Thanks for all the input guys! Wireless rocks...

 

[djconn]

Well after a few month of wireless, I'm beginning to think maybe it wasn't such a wise purchase. My signal strength reads excellent (router is only 10 feet away thru a wall) but I keep losing my connection. I've talked to Linksys about five times and they've had me change frequency channels in hopes of deminishing some interference. I realize that 2.4 Ghz phones obviously interfere but other people's routers are also interferring as well. They are essentially kicking me off my connection.

I always see another netgear and linksys router in range and then boom...I'm kicked off. I probably lose my connection 10-20 times a day.

Anyway, if anyones got any ideas or tips/tricks, please let me know. I'm about to chunk this thing.

 

[djconn]

Just in case anyone else is having this same problem, I think I've fixed it.

I simply set the router to "G" only mode vs mixed. I also changed channels once again. This has seemed to finally fix the problem. :lol:

 

[Kris]

Had this problem myself. Happens mostly in the evening when people come home and turn on their wireless - why not leave it on all the time? go figure - It has gone away. Wireless is nice and I have never had a problem.