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Introduction | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3
STEP 1: Get the Gear
First, make sure everything you buy conforms to the dominant wireless standard, known as 802.11b, or Wi-Fi (short for wireless fidelity). That way, if you want to mix brands or network a Mac to a Windows PC, everything will still work together.
The heart of your network will be a wireless access point and cable/dsl router, preferably one device that does both. These two-in-one units, sometimes called wireless gateways, start at $150 and often throw in a few Ethernet ports too, so you can connect a printer or desktop PC using a standard Ethernet cable. I had a smooth experience with the Linksys Etherfast Wireless AP+Cable/dsl Router ($169). Similar products are made by D-link, Intel, NetGear, Siemens, SMC and 2Wire.
To add a desktop PC to your network, you will need a wireless pci card ($50 and up), which slides into any free slot inside the computer tower. Better yet, consider a wireless usb network adapter, which saves you the trouble of opening up the case. Linksys sells one for $99.
To connect a notebook PC, you'll need a wireless PC card, a slim metal plate that slides into the laptop's pcmcia slot and has a small antenna sticking out from the end (also $50 and up). To connect a Mac desktop or notebook, get an Apple Airport card ($99). If you're buying a new notebook, most major PC manufacturers will sell you one with Wi-Fi capabilities built in.
Step 2: Install and Configure >> |
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