skip to main content

What would I need? Wireless question....

17 years ago

I have a Windows '98 HP computer....what would I need to hook it up wireless so that I can use my high speed with that computer? It doesn't have a wireless card..are they expensive and are they hard to install. Then..I assume I would need a router...are they expensive and are they hard to install :o) I just got high speed and I realize now how I had been living in the Dark Ages. Am I smart enough to tackle a job like this, I wonder? How to get started?

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (4)

maybee_gw
Original Author
17 years ago
Oh my..never mind...I was just reading the "hacker" post below and couldn't even follow half of that..after a while, I quit concentrating on it, though (above my head). I guess I'll just use that old computer for crafts and such...
owbist
17 years ago
Don't be afraid because of another thread, use it to move forward in a more aware and enlightened fashion. A 4 port router can be had for$40 and up and a wireless network (NIC) card can be had for the same amount.

Installing the NIC card takes 5 minutes. Connect the router to your incoming Cat5 cable. Follow the instructions that come with either piece of equipment. It is not difficult, just a little quiet concentration and you will be set to go.

Your existing computer can remain hard wired.

Check the link below

Here is a link that might be useful: 4 steps to a wireless network
Related Discussions
Need help with why i can't print from laptop on wireless network
Q
Comments (3)
Just to add,your wired computer must be turned on in order for the wireless to print, at least mine does I found out.
...See More
Wireless Router Question
Q
Comments (6)
Linksys seems to be the most popular, followed by Dlink. There are many others that are just fine & some way much better for way much more money. Usually the $40 deals are discontinued or obsolete models... which are quite usable for most people. There is a new wifi which isnt quite mainstream yet but eventually will replace the 802.11G with 802.11N which also do G for people with old stuff. Being that you are new to wifi, $40 sounds fine - however; if the isp supplies a router it may be programed such that you may not be able to hook another router to it and then you would want a wifi access point that doesnt do routing, maybe a network switch too,,, depends. ~ In a home with multiple computers usually the isp supply's a combination modem/router,,, if they know you have a laptop they would normally supply a modem/wifi_router. Free at install with no monthly rental provided you agree to an annual contract... which usually have a provision for a $100 or so early cancellation fee with return of the modem/router.
...See More
Question on wireless printer for laptop
Q
Comments (7)
Not sure about the Lexmark, but the wireless HP's have a Network Setup Wizard that is accessed from the front of the printer that works similarly to Windows. You set up an Ad Hoc (without router) network and seek the available networks...it finds the nearest, you select your network (his laptop) and finish. Much easier than it sounds. There should be step by step instructions with screenshots on the CD or in the paper manual. Pam
...See More
what do I need to know/do for cable/fios/wireless network?
Q
Comments (2)
CAT5 is simply a designation for a kind of wire typically used for computer networks. I don't know about FIOS but AT&T's Uverse can also use it to transmit a signal for television. COAX is a type of wire used for television transmission exclusively. It wouldn't be a bad idea to have COAX run to every room you're likely to have a television in and CAT5 to every room you are likely to have a television and/or a computer. Wireless networking (for computers) is just that - no wires. It's often called WiFi (pronounced Y-fi). The obvious advantage is that you don't have to run wires anywhere. The disadvantage is that it's often not quite as fast as a wired network. WiFi is less secure than a hard wired network and susceptible to interference.
...See More
stargazzer
17 years ago
I don't know about cards, but the Linksys routers sell for about $49 at Walmart, $69 through my cable company. The instructions are very easy to follow with step by step pictures. Call the router company if you have any problems, they will walk you through it. Have a pad and pencil ready to right down pass words and names.
grandms
17 years ago
My Netgear wireless g router cost me $39. It was very easy to install, and I have had it in service for about two years with no trouble whatsoever.

Related Stories

FURNITURE On Trend: Wireless Lounging

By Lily Gahagan

Cut the cord on outmoded ideas of comfort with these furniture picks that make the most of your mobile time

WORKING WITH PROS 8 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Meeting With Your Designer

By Kelli Kaufer Designs

Thinking in advance about how you use your space will get your first design consultation off to its best start

7 Questions for Design Superstars

By Annie Thornton

Share Your Know-How Now on The Houzz Questions Board

Design Dilemmas: 4 Questions for Houzzers

By Annie Thornton

Share Your Advice for a Low-Water Garden, Wet Bar, Family Room and Basement Spa!

ORGANIZING 4 Questions to Help You Organize Your Favorite Photos

By Jennifer Phelps: Organize. Design. Reinvent!

Organize your keeper photos with a system that's just right for you, whether it's in the cloud or you can hold it in your hand

4 Questions for Design Stars

By Annie Thornton

What Suggestions Do You Have for These Design Dilemmas?

Today's Question: TV Fireplace Dilemma

By Lily Gahagan

Should the TV Go Above the Fireplace — or Not? Have Your Say!

5 Questions for Design Stars

By Annie Thornton

Do You Have the Answer to These Home Design Dilemmas?

TASTEMAKERS 5 Questions for Heath's Adam Silverman

By Vanessa Brunner

A studio director brings out-of-the-ordinary dinnerware and home accessories to Heath Ceramics' showrooms. See where he goes for inspiration

TASTEMAKERS 5 Questions From ICFF: Lindsey Adelman

By Vanessa Brunner

The inventive designer takes a break from New York's International Contemporary Furniture Fair to talk about her artistic lighting fixtures

Sponsored

More Discussions

PC screen goes black for 2-3 seconds....

5

Tired of MS Office 365 Monthly Fees?

1