Wireless connection problem..strange!

eddie_c_2

I have had NTL installed last Feb, specifically for a static PC, a cable link via a set top box.

Upon bringing home my works lap top, lo and behold, 'wireless networks detected' I don't have a router, but was able to log on and use the net via my wireless PC.

Strangely now, this 'free' service is gone, 'no wireless networks detected or within range'.

Any ideas why my wireless connection has apparently disappeared?

dunkreid

If you don't have any wireless gear in your house (you say you have a cable connection to a set top box which I assume has no wireless capabilities) it's likely that the laptop was picking up a neighbour's wireless network, which is now no longer within range.

Is this possible?

eddie_c_2

Occasionally my wireless networks list would show a BT voyager network which I couldnt use as it needed a code, I also had an NTL network, and something called linksys, now I have none!

eddie_c_2

Not sure if the networks can go out of range or not, surely if the signal is there, its there!

I did shut a few apps down through msnconfig, and am wondering if somehow this has impeded my ability to connect, although my lap top is telling me everything is AOK except for the above!

dunkreid

eddie_c wrote:

Not sure if the networks can go out of range or not, surely if the signal is there, its there!

Okay, definitely sounds like your neighbours networks and I'd be wary of connecting to them (bandwidth theft / security of your laptop).

Signals come and go with wireless, especially at the periphery of their range. Additionally, a neighbour may have moved his or her router out of your laptop's range, reduced the signal strength of their router, or had their broandband disconnected, all factors outwith your control - probably for the best.

Shaun_d123

I would agree with all the above.

My neighbours have an unsecured wireless network (silly people) that sometimes I pick up and sometimes I dont

eddie_c_2

So would buying a router guarantee me a signal 100% of the time (or as near as dammit)?

Edinburghlass_2

If you want to use your laptop at home you need to buy a router specifically for cable users like this one from PCW.

eddie_c_2

Many thanks so far, however it now works again!

Whats going on?

I can't quite get my head round the fact that I can pick a signal up and use it, without having bought a router!

Edinburghlass_2

The reason you can pick up a signal is because your laptop is wireless enabled but you are picking up someone elses network and not your own.

rjm2k1

You don't need to buy a router, your neighbour has one and has not set it up securely, you are using their connection, your laptop is talking to their router. Technically, it is illegal for you to use their connection in this manner. I knew someone who said they had done this for two years and then got annoyed because their neighbour was moving, so they would have to pay for their own connection. They didn't know it was illegal. Personally, I don't think it should be illegal, but it would always be against the T&C's of their ISP.