Adding Wireless to Ethernet LAN

[jnulr]

Hello,

For several years now I've had a LAN consisting of 3 computers running WinXP. I want to add "wireless" capability to the existing LAN but want to be sure of what I need to purchase to accomplish this.

I currently have a Satellite modem (Direcway) attached to a Linksys BEFSX41 router.

I was looking at the Linksys WAP54G "Access Point" for hooking up between my router and the computers. My question here is, is this the best or are there others I should be considering?

Question 2: I want to have flexibility enough to access another computer (not on the currrent LaN) through my connection to the internet so I am thinking a USB network adapter. (I don't want to have to pull a case open to insert a PCI card if possible) Any suggestions on what kind?

SUMMARY: I work on neighborhood computers (free of charge) to get older folks connected and upgrade older desktops to give away as well. I do this in another section of my house roughly 50 feet or so away from my current "wired" lan.

As always, "thanks" in advance.

jnulr

 

[Hefemeister]

I would just replace the linksys wired roter with a wireless one. They are just about the same price as an access point. usb adapters work ok but if you could get a pci one it would work better. Just make sure and purchase one that is the same brand as your router. I would get 1st) linksys 2nd) dlink 99999999999999999) belkin

 

[GageMW]

it depends there also high preformance USB adapters, but typically pci is better. the only problem with a USB is that it can get lost, unplugged or damaged easily. but that wireless router appears to be a fine upgrade just make sure to get a compatible adapter like hefemeister said

 

[Disillusion]

You need to ditch the router you have now and buy the Linksys wireless router. Has 802.11g and b wireless capabilities and supports up to 4 wired computers. I have one and it works great. Good firewall and security features.

 

[jnulr]

Hi everyone! Thanks so much for the responses. I've been thinking rather than a typical "pen" style USB adapter, does anyone know about this one:
http://froogle.google.com/froogle_cluster?q=Linksys+USB+
Wireless+adapters&pid=2058786457841205784&oid=
6636580165752105349&btnG=Search+Froogle&lmode=
&addr=&scoring=p&hl=en

This looks like it would be much faster at 54mbs vs 11mbs

Thanks again.

jnulr

 

[Hefemeister]

link does not come up but shold be ok. linksys generally makes good stuff. remember you need a 802.11g router to get 54mbs.