Network Desktop and laptop

[eyebrows]

I need some guidance with setting up a network connection for my daughter’s computers. She has a Dell 933 mhz desktop running Windows ME. The ISP is Earthlink DSL and the modem is connected to the computer via Cat 5 cable to the NIC card. She now has acquired a Dell laptop 1.2 mhz Celeron that she wants to network with the existing desktop. She would prefer to not have the laptop wired to the new router, but have the flexibility of using the laptop throughout the house. I have seen combination routers advertised that appear to allow this situation to exist. This is my first attempt at such a venture and any help would be greatly appreciated. My questions are:

Would it be best to change her existing NIC card in the desktop to the same brand as the router for best performance and fewer conflicts? It will not be a wireless connection but will continue to use the Cat 5 cable. Any suggestions for the best brand to use would be greatly appreciated.

Do I have to do anything with the built-in NIC in the laptop when configuring the computer to use the PCMCIA networking card? Does the PCMCIA card act as the new network card without having to literally install a new NIC card in the laptop?

Does anyone have any step by step instructions or links for accomplishing this specific task?

Thanks

[cat5e]

If you stay with CAT5 connection what ever brand is the Router NIC or PCMCIA will do fine, it does not matter which brand you can mix and get the cheapest you can find.

What she really wants needs Wireless Cable/DSL Router. It has both wired and Wireless Capacity.

Since you have to buy a Router you might as well buy a Wireless Cable/DSL Router (It cost the same or few $$ more).

For the Laptop you need Wireless PCMCIA card. Config and enjoy.

Both pieces of hardware are available this week in OfficeMax, CompUSA, and others, with big rebates.

If you want the state of the fastest possible State of the Art.

Link to: D-Link Extreme G Bundle Kit ($89 after rebate). (http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=10344769&loc=101&sp=1)

If you decided to get Wireless config instructions here:

Link to: Wireless - Basic Configuration. (http://www.ezlan.net/Wireless_Config.html)

Link to: Wireless Security. (http://www.ezlan.net/Wireless_Security.html)

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[eyebrows]

Thanks cat5e. That is exactly what I was looking for. You were a great help. Thanks again.