Questions about going Wireless

I have a desktop currently on dial-up that I would like to convert to wireless. I have read about "wireless access points", but am not clear on things. What would I need to change my computer so that I can receive wireless, preferably from a distance? Thanks.

You are likely to be disappointed with performance if you attempt to "share" internet connection with more than one machine via WLAN to LAN wireless Router. Even connecting one machine wirelessly from Dial-up is most likely going to decrease your through-put internet access.

Routers that have serial RS-232 connectors for Dial-up are generally discontinued, but you could find and purchase one if you search.

Here's a brief article with product suggestions.
http://compnetworking.about.com/cs/wireles…sharedialup.htm

My suggestion….
If you are on Dial-up, stay connected with a wired connection to a single machine.
Sorry.

Best Regards

Alternatively, consider subscribing to DSL if available locally. Then most any current Wireless capable Router (Netgear/Linksys/2-wire/etc) will do the job for you. Your machine will also need a wireless Network Interface Card/device. If DSL is not available locally, consider Satellite access. (slower than DSL, more expensive, but faster than Dial-up and capable of sharing wirelessly) Or if the above options are not available, consult with your local Wireless Phone (cell phone) providers. They may have a subscription and hardware that would suit your interests. Best Regards

EDIT apologies to Doug……my slow typing!
Hi,
Wireless connection to the Internet is more common when an ISP ( Internet Service Provider) is providing a broadband (High speed) service, rather than a "dial up" which is often associated with low speed (narrow band)

If your ISP is able to provide you with an ADSL broadband service then it would be wise to consider a device that includes a router, a gateway, a wireless access point, a firewall and a 4 port switch, all in the one device. This device may either be supplied by your ISP as part of your contract, or you can buy your own…..
Here's an example of such a device
http://www.amazon.com/NETGEAR-DG834G-Wirel…t/dp/B0000D8HK1

If your ISP usually delivers broadband internet to your area via cable (perhaps alongside your TV) then a different sort of device is needed
Here's an example of such a device
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Netgear-WGR614UK-W…r/dp/B0000C1WO2

Your ISP will be able to advise on the service that is available in your location and therefore the type of device required.

To enable your computers to operate using wireless Internet they will need to be fitted with a wireless network adapter, (New laptops are usually fitted with these as part of their basic specification)

If you are confident on opening your desktop computer (taking all the required personal safety and ESD (anti static) precautions then here is an example of an internal network adapter card, that could be fitted.

http://compnetworking.about.com/od/hardwar…lessadapter.htm

NOTE if you do not have a full understanding of all the required personal safety requirements and ESD precautions, then do not open your machine,
instead you could consider a USB wireless network adapter or trust the work to a competent local computer technician.
Here's an example of a USB wireless adapter that just plugs into a USB port on your machine (usually after the appropriate driver has been installed from the CD that will accompany the USB wireless network adapter.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Netgear-WG111-Wire…r/dp/B0002LHX8O

The above links refer to "wireless 802.11g" or just wireless g) but the latest and fastest wireless devices are ofen referrred to as "wireless 802.11n or just wireless n

The first step may be to contact the various ISPs who provide Broadband service in your area and make an evaluation of the advantages and disadvantages, not to mention the cost of each before you go any further.
Post back if you have any questions on this.
Regards
paws