Laptop internet access...

mark_steps

We have a new addition to the family, a wee laptop! She is lovely, very clean and quiet. For this we call her Dell LOL now onto the fun bit!

I want to use it for going on the net at times, not alot, just now and again so my question is simply : Can i plug my Broadband connection into it? (It has an ethernet socket) has windows something on with internet explorer. If so do i need to set it up or can i just plug n surf? Any tips or websites that may be of use would be great... Or info on this "wireless internet" heard some cafes allow this...

T4i

If your broadband uses ethernet and your laptop has ethernet then it should just plug'n'play. You may need to make sure you have plugged the ethernet in, turned modem on THEN boot DELL.

Wireless is available, but you will need a Laptop Wireless PCMCIA
http://www.broadbandbuyer.co.uk/Shop/ShopSearch.asp?CategoryID=58

Or a wireless USB adaptor
http://www.broadbandbuyer.co.uk/Shop/ShopSearch.asp?CategoryID=121

(remember one for each computer you have.

and then you need a router (if you want net access with it) or a HUB (no net access with it) - if you want net and you have ADSL you need a wireless ADSL router
http://www.broadbandbuyer.co.uk/Shop/ShopSearch.asp?CategoryID=80

If you want net access with Cable (telewest or NTL) you need a wireless cable router
http://www.broadbandbuyer.co.uk/Shop/ShopSearch.asp?CategoryID=65

Make sure the router has a modem built in, as its sometimes not very clear.

albertross_2

Just a footnote to T4i's post, if the laptop already has a wireless card built-in, you won't need an extra PCMCIA card/usb adapter, to go wireless, just a wireless router.. Netgear is a good brand.

mark_steps

Sounds stupid, but i have no idea what it has. Mihgt just plug in and see what happens lol