Home wireless network requirements

[redsox9]

Hey, everybody:

This should generate at least some discussion but I want to set up a home wireless network. Now, I'm smart enough (I think) to set it up myself but I'm curious to know what my requirements should be. Every week in the CompUSA and BestBuy fliers, I see "good, better, and best" options for home systems. Cost aside, what do I really need? FYI, I have a relatively small Cape-style home with a first and second floor as well as a finished basement; most importantly, I want to be able to use my new laptop on all three floors.

Hopefully I've given people enough information to generate some answers. Any insight would be appreciated - thanks! :cool:

[areidmtm]

you'll need a wireless router and some kind of wireless receiver for the computer (USB, PCI, PCMCIA).

Just plug the rounter into your DSL/Cable modem, set up a security key for the wireless router, and set up the receiver on the computer with that same security key, are basically that all you need.

[redsox9]

Thanks for the reply, areidmtm. Good information. Unfortunately, that did not really answer my question. :rolleyes:

As I stated, I know how to set up a wireless network. What I want to know are the requirements that will suit my needs. That is, do I need something that boosts the range? Will the basic model work well enough? That's more of what I'd like to know.

For example, in the latest CompUSA flier, they have the basic LinkSys 802.11G system, then the model with SpeedBooster technology, and finally the router with SRX200 MIMO technology that claims speeds up to 600% faster than standard 802.11G.

So, with the fact that I have a modest-size home, what will do the job? I just don't want to buy the absolute best if the basic will do. Any insight or lessons learned would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[macgyver2]

redsox9, consider that the speed of 802.11G is 54Mbps (the SpeedBooster stuff is supposed to double that) while current cable internet speeds are typically under 10Mbps. I have rarely seen my total bandwidth go above 1.5Mbps. A normal home user almost never needs what you call "the best". The exception would be if you need a lot of wireless intranet bandwidth (heavy gaming with multiple client machines, lots of file transferring between computers in your home, etc.).

My opinion is that the basic LinkSys G-router will be fine for you (and you shouldn't need any higher power antennas or anything like that). If you get the SpeedBooster router, you'll be stuck with having to buy SpeedBooster capable cards to get that extra benefit. Unsurprisingly, they cost more than normal G-cards. The top-of-the-line one you mention is an even more ridiculous purchase in my mind.

[redsox9]

Thanks for the lowdown, macgyver2! The only advantage that I see would be in transferring files between computers but I'm more concerned with being able to access the internet. More importantly, you answered the second part of the question, too, which was whether I needed to buy extra equipment to boost the signal. Again, my home is modest in size so I wouldn't suspect that it would be necessary but it's nice to get confirmation on that.

If anyone else has anything to add, please don't hestitate! Thanks!!! :)

[2notch]

Linksys has always worked very well for me *EXCEPT* the WRT54G version 5. The one I bought would assign wierd DHCP IP addresses and choke the throughput to 7KBps on a 1.5 meg connection.

While looking for a cure, I found this:
http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,14563605

and this:
http://www.dslreports.com/faq/linksys/2.1+WRT54G#12772

and lots of complaints on the forum about that model:
http://www.dslreports.com/forum/equip,16

There is a small sticker on the outside of the box with the serial number and MAC ID. Check it first. If the first 4 letters of the s/n is CDFB, pass on it!

It has a VxWorks OS, not Linux like all the other models.

[redsox9]

Thanks, 2notch - good information. Hey, nice to see you back posting on the forum, too! :)

[MrB]

I use a D-Link DI-524 802.11g unit and have had no problems. The unit is in my office (in my house) and there are 3 bedrooms close by. The signal strength in any of the bedrooms is good as is the office, the signal drops a bit when you go to the master bedroom on the other side of the house or out on the patio but it is still strong enough to surf efficiently. Just make sure you lock it down when configuring it.

[redsox9]

Everyone, I can't tell you how much I appreciate the responses. Feel free to keep 'em coming! ;)

[Early Out]

Whatever you buy (cheap, moderate, or pricey), keep the router a few feet away from the cable modem (usually not a problem, but some cable modems can generate some interference). More important, keep it away from any cordless phones and microwaves. No amount of signal-boosting can overcome the interference those devices crank out!

[Maggilove]

I have an Intellinet wireless router/modem 802.11b... never had a moment's grief... good strong signal throughout my bungalow, and in the garden.

[drew]

I'd just like to throw out that I've cooked both a LinkSys and D-link router. My point being that I wouldn't invest a lot of $$$ in a router. Just buy whatever G router on sale and get what you can out of it.

PA

[grantgarvey]

I bought a < $10 access point (my dsl modem is a router and handles all that). It's in the basement, basement and first floor coverage is great, second floor notices a speed decrease in web browsing. Solution: keep the computers in the basement. If you just browse the web wireless, 802.11b will work fine, G is better for transferring files over your WLAN.

$50 would be my limit for spending on a wireless router. That will be good enough for home use.