Some help finding correct wireless networking hardware

[Guest idavid]

since my girlfriend has got herself a laptop i have decided to invest in a wireless network, to stop her pulling the modem out of my laptop every five minutes. i dont really know what i need. presumably one wireless network hub/rooter/modem and a PCMCIA card. the hub needs to be a bit future proof, i would like to use it to maybe connect up my xbox to the internet as well :twisted: and can it also replace my existing broadband modem (a free one from freeserve strange fish like alcatel job)?

i dont mind paying a bit for the hub, as i have some old PCMCIA card already, which might work... fingers crossed.

any pointers towards recommended bits of kit would be much appreciated.

[Guest siu99spj]

Well you could do worse than try here. Admittedly its American (Extremetech) but it covers the basics pretty well.

Basically, you need a wireless router, wireless card for all the PCs connecting, or put them near enough to use the odd copper port most routers also have. Set it all up, add the security and your done!

And for futureproofing, use 802.11g, its fast, compatible with older 802.11b, and isn't that much more expensive.

As for who to buy from, Belkin seem to be qiute cheap at ebuyer, but just make sure you get a known brand. It's easier in the long run!

[Guest Monolithix [MVP]]

Belkin rock. I have their 54g PCI wifi card, works a treat and has a lifetime guarantee!