Path Technology

Everyone's doing it. Why shouldn't you? If you have a notebook computer, why be chained to your desk to be on the network or on the Internet? But you want to do it safely (and properly).

To connect wirelessly, two devices are required: a Remote Transceiver and a base transceiver, often called an Access Point. One Remote is required for each computer, and one Access Point is required for each approximate 200 feet area. These conform to 802.11 standards (originally 802.11b, now superseded by 802.11g). You must "design" your wireless network:

• If you have an existing wired network, where the computers and servers are connected via a hub or broadband router, then attaching a simple Access Point makes sense. The Access Point just connects with a wire like the other computers, and the notebook computer attaches to the Access Point, wirelessly!
• But if you do not have an existing wired network (and especially if you plan to add broadband access), then installing a "Wireless Router" is better. The notebook attaches similarly.

People get fustrated when they discover that basic Wireless Routers and Access Points (which are far simpler) cost the same! It is tempting to buy the Wireless Router and connect it to an existing wired router, because it is 'more for the money'. This is often a BAD idea for the uninitiated, as there are often MUCH MORE know-how needed to configure TWO routers properly. Next time: Security!