Sick of dial-up/Going Cable

[x51out]

And I have only a basic knowledge of how to set this up. Need hand-holding bad! I am going to have 2 pc and 1 laptop connected and need to be able to connect at the same time, so I'll need a Router (and HUB??). If I go wireless, how far can I move the laptop from the wireless router? Accross the street (100 feet)? Or should I save the cash? The laptop has a 10/100 Ethernet card, but the two PCs do not, but will I even need an NIC for a USB cable modem?? I'm not inclined to pay my cable company for installation ( $100... screw that), so I'll be flying by the seat of my pants, and any suggestions would be appreciated!:-@ ;)

[Midknyte]

yes, you'll have to get a router/switch at least. Linksys makes good quality routers that are easy to set up. This one should do the job:

http://www.linksys.com/products/product.asp?grid=23&prid=20

if you want to go wireless, i would get a separate wireless access point. by having it separate from the router/switch, it gives you more flexibility on where to put it. just like the old rabbit ears on tvs, you might have to move the WAP around to find the best reception. you'll also have to get a wireless card for your laptop. the range really depends on your walls and other interference. don't forget to set your laptop to infrastructure mode. a lot of people get stuck on that.

there are 2 main standards out right now, 802.11a and 802.11b. the "a" version is faster, but more expensive. you can check out linksys wireless here:

http://www.linksys.com/products/group.asp?grid=22

hope that helps! :D

[Midknyte]

ooops. missed the last part of your post. if you plan to use the router, then you'll need a nic in each pc. don't bother with usb cable modems either.

[x51out]

Helps alot! I might have to opt for the cheaper, non-wireless version and just run the cables from room to room, although wireless would be nice. I literally had to twist my wifes arm for this, so I don't want to push too hard, i.e. spending big bucks on wireless setup... I'll take what I can ;) . Any suggestions for the cable modem? The cable company has a compatability list of supported modems, Linksys BEFCMU10 and the v2 are on it... what is the difference? Thanx for your help.

[AllGamer]

with Linksys awesome products

newer version 2 = better and faster

:t :)

[x51out]

The cable company does throw in a free DLINK NIC, so I'll need another NIC, Cable Modem and ROUTER/4-Port Switch. Is there anything else I should get so I'm fully prepared for 08-27-02 :t ?

[Midknyte]

You'll need patch cables of course, but you probably thought of that already. other than that, I think you're set. :)

[x51out]

Yes, cables. My buddy works for the cable company, so I've been offered plenty of cable ;) . But on the software side, how much of a hassle will this be? I've read plenty of posts here and have convinced myself that I'll be spending plenty of time here also (sniveling and whining of course :D ).

[Midknyte]

Linksys routers are a snap to set up. they are practically plug and play. just make sure your systems are set to obtain ip automatically. :)

[x51out]

10-4...:cool: .