The Notebook Review forums were hosted by TechTarget, who shut down them down on January 31, 2022. This static read-only archive was pulled by NBR forum users between January 20 and January 31, 2022, in an effort to make sure that the valuable technical information that had been posted on the forums is preserved. For current discussions, many NBR forum users moved over to NotebookTalk.net after the shutdown.
Problems? See this thread at archive.org.

    Adding wireless to pre-existing wired network

    Discussion in 'Networking and Wireless' started by Lawyer2Go, Feb 10, 2006.

  1. Lawyer2Go

    Lawyer2Go Newbie

    Reputations:
    0
    Messages:
    6
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    5
    We have a 2-computer pre-existing wired network in my house, with a DSL connection. I now have a spiffy new Thinkpad z60t (finally arrived after weeks of waiting!), which has 802.11b/g, and would like to have wireless access in my house.

    Am I correct that what I need to add is a wireless access point? Any recommendations on what to look for or avoid? Our current wired network dates to . . . 2002, I think. Any back-compatability issues that might be presented there? (unfortunately I am at the office now, and can't give any specs on our current router).

    I read through the sticky topic, but wanted to check that my understanding was correct. Thanks for any assistance!
     
    Lawyer2Go, Feb 10, 2006
    #1
  2. ZJChaser

    ZJChaser Notebook Consultant

    Reputations:
    2
    Messages:
    210
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    You shouldn't have any compatability issues really. You are correct that a wireless access point is all you need.

    a Linksys WAP54G should fit your needs just fine. If you are really looking for increased range I'd also suggest a WAP54GX but they come at a significant price premium as well.
     
    ZJChaser, Feb 10, 2006
    #2
  3. Lawyer2Go

    Lawyer2Go Newbie

    Reputations:
    0
    Messages:
    6
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    5
    Great, thanks for the quick reply! I live in a small house in an urban area so extra range I don't need! ;)
     
    Lawyer2Go, Feb 10, 2006
    #3
  4. lmychajluk

    lmychajluk Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    31
    Messages:
    595
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    Don't toss the idea of replacing the router with a wireless one. Many times you can find a new wireless router cheaper than an equivalent access point. I'm not sure why this is - maybe because many more people buy routers to start a home network than access points to expand an existing wired network?
     
    lmychajluk, Feb 10, 2006
    #4
  5. Chutsman

    Chutsman Notebook Evangelist

    Reputations:
    6
    Messages:
    609
    Likes Received:
    1
    Trophy Points:
    31
    And in case you're wondering how the wireless router (which I would also recommend) is connected, it goes like this:

    phone line -> dsl modem via RJ45 cable -> wireless router via RJ45 cable -> computer.
     
    Chutsman, Feb 12, 2006
    #5
  6. nickspohn

    nickspohn Notebook Virtuoso NBR Reviewer

    Reputations:
    1,532
    Messages:
    2,742
    Likes Received:
    20
    Trophy Points:
    55
    Thanks for reading my guide :)

    I would avoid getting an access point, Aand just get a router. Since nowadays, access points are built into routers as well.

    Nick
     
    nickspohn, Feb 12, 2006
    #6
  7. ZJChaser

    ZJChaser Notebook Consultant

    Reputations:
    2
    Messages:
    210
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    30
    it is true for basic home use its often easier just to get a router with wireless but I've seen many situations where for one reason or another the user is partial to the current router. I myself do most installs where a wireless router isn't an option and an access point has to be used.
     
    ZJChaser, Feb 12, 2006
    #7
  8. dr_st

    dr_st Notebook Deity

    Reputations:
    571
    Messages:
    1,437
    Likes Received:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    55
    My wired router is also a print server, so obviously I didn't want to ditch it. So I got me an access point with an integrated switch.
     
    dr_st, Feb 12, 2006
    #8