Do USB 2.0 Wireless adapters work with non-connected Desktops

I do not have Internet access on my employer’s network. I know that if I brought in a laptop with an internal wireless card I could connect to someone else’ network in my 8 story building containing a hotel with a conference room and gain Internet access.

I am thinking of getting Linksys’ 2.0 USB adapter (WUSB54GC), an external wireless G adapter, for my desktop here at work in efforts to connect to the same network as if I brought in a laptop with an internal wireless card to gain internet access without my employer knowing. It seems to me to be pretty easy to conceal the adapter as it is connected to the back of my machine.

I understand that I probably should not log on to my employer’s Novell Network and I should work “offline” giving the adapter a chance to receive other’s network signal wirelessly. Is that possible? Does this make sense? Would it matter if I logon to my employer’s Novell Network? Would the Wireless adapter connect to other network at the same time? I tend to doubt it. I understand that the adapter does come with some software, but I am not sure if it would be competing or conflicting with my Novell Network connection. I have no problem with working “offline” to gain Internet access via the wireless adapter. Would I need a router too?

Any help that anyone can offer would be greatly appreciated. I would hate to buy the dam thing only to find that it does not work or that I would need more hardware. I suppose that I could bring in a laptop, but then how would that look if people see that I have a desktop on my desk and I am choosing to use my laptop?

Thank you so very much

 

You can do that. You can use the laptop to connect to the wireless network with internet access. Then run an RJ-45 cross-over cable to your desktop and start up the machine. You will have to setup your laptop to share the internet connection.

You don't need a router as long as your laptop has a network connection RJ-45 port.

 

Dude,

The thing is I do not have a laptop desk top only. I simply wanted to invest in adpater to pick up the "wireless" signal so that I can connect to a network to gain access to the internet. Do you think that with the software that comes with the adapter along with the adapter itself, I would be able to gain access? You rock!

 

Yes, if you bought a wireless adapter and then installed the software. As long as the internet connection is not secured you will be able to access it. You will have to use the computer off the company network. But it should work.

 

You'd be fine witha usb adapter working "offline" in Novell. Also if you have a USB key drive you should check out "portablefreeware" for apps that can be run on a usb drive without intallation (or modification to the registry)...

I used to do that at my work before getting a laptop. You can use the computer like it's your own and not leave a trace when you're done.

 

Excellent!!! You have made my day and thanks for the advice regarding portablefreeware.