Which Router???

sc123_2

Hi,Just bought a laptop. I want to be able to use this at home wirelessly as well as us the pc.Which is the best router to get. I know nothing about them. Also can you use laptop and pc at the same time both connected to internet. I have seen a bt voyager 2091 on ebay for £20, is this any good?Any help would be appreciated.

frogman_2

sc123, there are many questions for you to answer;

1. Do you have DSL or Cable?
2. Who is your ISP? BT or someone else?
3. How far from the router will you be using the laptop?
4. How much do you want to spend?
5. Would you consider refurbished or 2nd-hand routers?

Let see how we get on with those...

djheath

Do you have broadband internet? If so, you want to buy an ADSL wireless router - this is one with a broadband modem inside (which provides you with the internet) and the router bit allows you to network your PC's.

Once you get the router, you simple plug it in to all the correct plugs, enter you internet providers details in its configuration and away you go. You may have to set up wireless, (enable it, secure it), but all instructions should come with it.

I would personally recommend a linksys, netgear or 3com router. I wouldn't buy it from ebay. Get it from a decent shop where you can take it back if it breaks. https://www.ebuyer.com https://www.dabs.co.uk etc.

You will be able to have two or more computers connected to the net at one time with this setup if you have broadband.

sc123_2

Thanks for the replies.Have DSL.Provider is Tiscali.Distance between the two wouldn't be far. Within the house (and we don't have a very big house) and possibly in the summer, in the garden.May consider a refurb but probably not a second hand one.Obviously don't want to spend a fortune if I don't have to but as I know nothing about them its a little difficult. I don't want to spend a fortune if I don't need to.djheath - will look at the ones you recommed. Thanks.

espresso

sc123 wrote: »

I have seen a bt voyager 2091 on ebay for £20,

No need to spend £20 see here for a refurb.

fwor

You might want to future-proof yourself a bit by choosing a router that supports ADSL2+, which will (IIRC) support up to 24Mbps as and when (or if!) your ISP upgrades their service.

Also, you might consider one supporting MIMO (multiple active aerials) on the wireless side for best reception if your house has thick walls, as this can really cut down signal strength.