Ethernet & Wireless

chateauneufdupape

I would like to wirelessly connect 2 desktop computers. Both run Windows XP. The main computer is linked to an ADSL modem by USB port. I don't think either computer has an ethernet card, but I don't know how to find that out.

Would the following two products be all that I need and be suitable?

NetGear DG834GT Wireless 108Mbps Modem/Router

NetGear WG111T 108Mbps USB 2.0 Wireless Adapter

As you may have guessed, I am a non techie.

intel

Have you read the Wireless Sticky...

Browntoa

yes, unless you want both Pc's to be reomte from the wireless router

if the main Pc stays connected via USB then you only need the wireless adapter for the other PC as you thought

chateauneufdupape

yes but still not sure!

chateauneufdupape

So how do I find out if either computer has Ethernet?

Chippy_Minton

Right-click My Computer - Properties - Hardware tab - Device Manager. Expand Network adapters.

Browntoa

ethernet does not give you wireless ??

chateauneufdupape

If I have Ethernet, does this not affect the type of router I can use? Or am I best sticking with the Netgear equipment listed above? Please let me know.

Under My Computer - Properties - Hardware tab - Device Manager. Expand Network adapters - General tab, it lists VIA Compatable Fast Ethernet Adapter.

Device Type: Network Adapters
Manufacturer: VIA Technologies, Inc
Location: PCI bus 0, device 18, function 0

albertross_2

The Netgear router has four wired ethernet ports as well as wireless, the easiest way to do it, is to use a wired connection for the PC nearest your phone point, and wireless from the other PC (which I presume is too far away for a wire).

You would no longer need to use any usb connection, (unless you bought a usb wireless adapter for the remote PC, instead of a PCI wireless card). A http://www.netgear.com/products/details/WG311T.php might be a better option if you have a spare PCI slot. The usb dongle is easy to plug in, but is a bit more prone to accidental damage

There are some tips on setting up wireless encryption in this thread, and the wireless sticky thread. If you do go wireless, this (WPA-PSK) is an important security measure.

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=142390

Browntoa

"via" is an ethernet connection so you can use either

mine is connected via USB and works fine(too lazy to change the cable when i installed )

will look like this on the back of the PC