skip to main content

Wireless card?

15 years ago

I need some help please. I'll explain the best that I can which may or may not be helpful since I don't really know what I'm talking about.

I have an older laptop that picks up our wireless internet but the signal isn't ever really strong on this lap top. It keeps disconnecting so I'm interested in getting a wireless card to boost the signal I get.

We have Verizon wireless internet, we have a hub in the basement and my laptop's signal isn't great basically anywhere in the house. I was told that I should look for a Belkin because it's the best brand. But am I supposed to get a lan card? A wifi card? What exactly am I supposed to be looking for?

I don't want to spend too much $ on it either. Is Ebay a good place to buy whatever it is I'm looking for or do you know of a better place?

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (3)

zep516
15 years ago
Your looking for a signal booster (wifi) for the router in the basement so it sends a stronger single throughout the house there are a few different things you can get, one is an antenna that connects to the router in the basement, then there is a thing called a repeater. I think others will have more information as I do not use the items. I like to deal with (New Egg) you can Google that, when buying items like this.

Some people hang the router on a wall and say that helps, that would be the router in your basement, the thing with the antennas on it.

So to start your search - Google "Wireless Single Booster" to get an idea of what is out there, and wait for others to reply
ms_minnamouse
Original Author
15 years ago
I just want the thing that plugs into my laptop, not to the router. Everybody else has newer laptops and Macs so they don't have the same problem as me.
Related Discussions
Need help on choosing Wireless card for desktop
Q
Comments (5)
If you don't have it in the pc then the usb dongle would be an easier way to go. Here is a link to a search on newegg for usb wireless N there you can see various options, of course there are some other things that turn up in the search but focus on the usb wireless dongles, you definitely want usb 2.0 and you want to make sure it does all types of security including WPA2 so you can set up your system securely. As you will see some have antennas some just look like a usb thumb drive. If you wish to find out exactly what is in your pc I would go get the free tool belarc and let it scan your pc it will tell you everything. Belarc excellent free tool I have it on all mine Here is a link that might be useful: newegg
...See More
Old computer-can't access internet
Q
Comments (3)
I too would say this pc might be a good candidate for linux, you can try it out with out installing it by getting one of the live cd's, you just put it in your cd drawer then boot up the pc from the cd and choose to run the linux cd, you can then test it out and see how it works on that pc, you can try your wireless and see if it finds it and recognizes it, some distros like Mepis have a special built in assistant to aid in things like that. If you like it and everything works well while using the cd you can choose to install it to that pc. But if you decide you did not want to all you have to do is hit shutdown on the pc and remove the linux cd from the drawer, next time you reboot it will be back using your windows. Nothing was changed while using the cd. Here is a site with lists of many linux versions and links to where you can buy them for a few bucks. Linux At the very least I agree with mxyplx get your IE updated or even better go get the firefox browser and use it instead. Firefox Also check the manufacturers site for your wireless card many do offer windows 98 drivers but you have to go get them and install them, did your paper work for your card mention anything about windows 98 drivers?
...See More
Desktop with Wireless Card
Q
Comments (15)
Snidely, you are new around here?? The regular volunteers on this forum have helped me over the years, so many times, I can't begin to count. I remember coming here a long time ago when I wanted to learn how to cut/paste. I think a Google search brought me to this forum. I come here frequently with any question I might have because I trust the help I always receive. Everyone is so kind and gentle. I don't feel embarassed asking for help and I've always been given it by the wonderful people who give of their time, talents and skill for free. They work together with respect for one another, even if they have differing opinions. The Computer Forum is such a comfortable place to come with your questions and problems and always know these 'friends' will be there. I am so thankful for their help. "My words were more reflective of impatience than anything else, " This is not the place for impatience. The people who come here do not have your background with computers. We are mostly new computer users or older folks with limited computer skills. Please learn to put your impatience on hold. Take what Ravencajun has said to heart. Your rude responses will not work nor be tolerated. Learn to be part of a team or find somewhere else to go. Jane
...See More
Wireless router help
Q
Comments (3)
I never turn off the wireless button on my HP laptop. I do shut down the computer if I'm not going to be using it for a long while. I usually have it connected to AC.
...See More
PKponder TX Z7B
15 years ago
If I understand what you are asking, you are just looking to replace the on-board or current wireless adapter for your laptop. I would suggest you find one that is compatible with the wireless router and the laptop. An example would be that the router is Linksys, so you could shop for a Linksys card (or the router could be Belkin..use a Belkin card). You will also have the options of pc card, pcmcia card or USB depending on the laptop. Finally, you will probably need to disable the wireless card you use currently to allow the new card to be the primary connection.

Pam

Related Stories

HOME TECH Cook Smarter With New Wi-Fi Kitchen Gadgets

Whip up meals with high-tech help, thanks to a phone-connected oven and teakettle, plus a web-surfing cutting board

HOME TECH Save Your Decor — Hide Your Media Stuff

By Eco+Historical, Inc.

When you tuck boxes, wires and speakers into walls and ceilings, all you'll notice is your favorite shows or music

HOME TECH 7 Ways to Charge Up and Connect After Disaster

Products and tips for communicating and keeping essential items running till the power's back on

THE HARDWORKING HOME CES 2015: Inching Toward a Smarter Home

By Mitchell Parker

Companies are betting big on connected devices in 2015. Here’s a look at what’s to come

DECORATING GUIDES How to Get Your Furniture Arrangement Right

Follow these 10 basic layout rules for a polished, pulled-together look in any room

ORGANIZING 7-Day Plan: Get a Spotless, Beautifully Organized Home Office

By Laura Gaskill

Start your workday with a smile in a home office that’s neat, clean and special to you

HOME OFFICES 13 Decorating Tricks for a More Pleasurable Home Office

By Toronto Interior Design Group

Use these suggestions to keep your work-from-home life from feeling like just another lousy day at the office

MOST POPULAR Get Ready for the Smart Coffee Table

Intelligent tables with touch screens are reaching the consumer market, with all the power of personal computers and more

HOME OFFICES 9 Hacks for a Clutter-Free Home Office

By Natasha Saroca

Use these clever ideas to transform a chaotic study into one that’s more conducive to working

HOME OFFICES 12 Ideas for Creative Desks

By Laura Gaskill

Have a little fun in your workspace with an out-of-the-ordinary desk

Sponsored

Traditional Hardwood Floors LLC

2 Reviews

Your Industry Leading Flooring Refinishers & Installers in Columbus

More Discussions

UPS needed - which ones?

9

sound missing on Dell

3

Problems with Outlook 2013

0

Upgrading Windows 11 from Home to Pro

2

Any suggestions for a very secure non-web-based email?

3