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Wireless Networking at Work and at Play

Do you find it boring sitting at the same computer desk to check out your latest Trade Me auction, finding an online recipe for tonight's dinner, or checking out how your shares performed for the day? Imagine how much more convenient it would be if you didn't have to plug your laptop or computer into a cable to access the internet either at home or at work.

Not only is this possible but it is very easy ... go wireless.

Computer cables are fast becoming a thing of the past.  Now you don't need to have a cable between your laptop or computer and your broadband modem / router (the little box allows you to get access to the internet) to surf the internet.

Whether you need to check your email or surf the internet from your deck chair while enjoying the autumn sun or share multiple computers in a business network - wireless is the way to go.  It is cost effective and best of all you can take your wireless network with you if you move - you can't say that about your old computer cables.

Wireless routers are one of the hottest items on today's market.  A wireless router simply connects one or more computers, printers, or other devices via radio waves. This means you can have multiple computers in your home or office all accessing the same modem but not being connected to it with cables.

What you do need to be mindful of however is securing your wireless connection to prevent others from accessing your internet connection and computer files.  You don't want your neighbour being able use your internet connection to download their favourite songs or even worse accessing your computer to view your private files and photos.  The wireless router must be set-up to include a unique code that will stop your neighbour or neighbouring business from using your connection.

What do you need?

1. Someone to install the wireless router for you unless you are a bit nerdy yourself.
2. A broadband internet connection (it won't work with a dial-up connection) - these normally start at $29.95 per month.
3. A wireless router - these retail between $130 and $200
4. A wireless network card for each computer.  Most modern laptops have these preinstalled however if you need one they normally retail  for $40 to $50