My big question is whether it's worth it switching from wired internet to wireless. My Microsoft router ( ) is starting to give up and I'm soon going to shop for a new router. There are 4 PCs in this house, all somewhat close to each other, and the only thing that's going to be moved around the house is 1 laptop. I don't know what other info to provide. So, is it worth it (heavy consideration on gaming, file sharing, and uh, leaving the PC on 24/7 to download things (legally))?

Most wireless routers still let you hardwire with 4 ports and then a WAN. So I'd say hardwire the desktops for security reasons and such and then have the lappy be wireless. Make sure you protect your wireless so other people (neighbors) dont steal your band width because your connection is wide open. That way you have the best of both. Also wireless is getting cheaper too so it isnt so much of a reason of cost.

Hope that helps.

I hate wires.

Alright, so your talking wireless networking and not wireless internet service.

Well, essentially there is very little difference in the cost of a wireless router over a standard wired router.

Most wireless routers have CAT5 ports for connectiong 4 or more computers up directly so you don't loose anything going wireless. But you gain an added capability.

If the laptop is already equiped with wireless then it's almost a no-brainer and gives you some flexibility you won't otherwise have.

EDIT: Go Wireless G.

Yea for now go with G. N really hasnt come out and been set as a standard yet. Whatever you do do not go with Linksys. I have had many problems with them.

Quote: Originally Posted by Cpt.Planet Yea for now go with G. N really hasnt come out and been set as a standard yet. Whatever you do do not go with Linksys. I have had many problems with them.

*raises eyebrow and looks at Linksys Modem and Router and continues post on lappy*

Yea, I have Lynksys also

Okay.. let's say, to connect

• 4 PC's by wire, 1 PC wireless, and 1 laptop wireless

which of these 4, for example, would be sufficient to provide decent internet (I have broadband):

http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProduc...127-150&depa=0
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProduc...127-149&depa=0
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProduc...124-002&depa=0
http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProduc...124-136&depa=0

(BTW I was actually leaning towards the Linksys's - I've heard good things about 'em)
Thanks for all the help, I'm really a noob at this.

Quote: Originally Posted by Dreyco Most wireless routers still let you hardwire with 4 ports and then a WAN. So I'd say hardwire the desktops for security reasons and such and then have the lappy be wireless. Make sure you protect your wireless so other people (neighbors) dont steal your band width because your connection is wide open. That way you have the best of both. Also wireless is getting cheaper too so it isnt so much of a reason of cost. Hope that helps.

That's what I did. Bought a linksys and jacked in my Server and Gamer boxes. Use the wireless for my laptop and handheld. Best of both worlds.

As for type, Go with the Linksys, I bought a 802.11G to replace a NetGear. After about a year, I had nothing but trouble with the NetGear Router. Seems like I was power-cycling it 3-4 time a week because it had locked up. Haven't had any problems with the Linksys.

I say the second choice. I will list my reasons why.

1. The so called super g or extreme g is bs. It will interfear with cordless telephones along with other wireless. If your neighbor has wireless their network will interfer with yours and cause both of them to slow down. The way they get 108 mbs of transfer is using 2 channels on the 2.4ghz band.

2. My choice not linksys and its the regular g standard. I owned one of these but made the mistake and sold it to a friend.

3. Its linksys i have had 7 linksys products die within one year of purchase and they are hassle with tech support. Not to mention their NAT and PAT doesnt work that well. This is my old router and I have had nothing but trouble. If you plan on running a FTP, HTTP, or game server forget about it.

4. Same as 1 and 3 I also own this router now.

My 802.11b pisses me off. Get wireless only if your going fast.