I now have windows 7- it seems a bit different, as there is no 'network connections' on the control panel list. I tried 'wireless assistant', and 'internet options'. On 'internet options' there is 'connections', which I cliccked on. Then 'dial-up' and 'Virtual Private Network Settings' popped up- but didn't show any network settings, secured or not. I used to be able to click the little computer icons on the taskbar, but they aren't there anymore. I have tried to 'customize' my taskbar, but can't find a way to get the computer icon again. Any suggestions with win 7?

I am still not able to get on despite spending 2 hours on the phone with my internet provider tech support last night. Talk about frustrating! They don't seem to have any idea what the problem could be - the tech said that since I have a secure wireless connection and a land based connection for the pc, the modem will have a built in router which means I don't need the external router connected. With or without the router I can't get on. I turned off all the security (briefly) - nothing changed. I can see my wireless connection in my list of available options and it says I am connected to it. But I can't get to a webpage. Thankfully my bank has a computer anyone can sign in to to do online banking, my daughter has this pc which I can use a bit and I can check my mail at work. The tech is coming over tomorrow - maybe I'll get some answers. If he's stumped, I am wondering if there is a way to feed the landbased connection to my laptop - anybody have an idea on that? Thanks for the ideas so far, I appreciate it. Suzan J

Just google "wireless internet". But, the short answer to your question is yes.

for routers I stick with liksys the only other one I used was a dlink and it was the one that was provided when I had verizon fios, all that I buy are linksys/cisco. If you already have an N router what are you wanting to upgrade? I found this to be a really good article on routers How to Buy a Wireless Router