Setting up a home network allows you to connect multiple PCs to other devices like printers, files, or an Internet connection in order to share resources. Two basic choices are available for networking: wired network components (these use existing phone lines or electric outlets) or wireless network (WiFi) components that work by sending the data over the air via radio frequencies. Wireless network components are probably the best choice since they offer far more convenience. There are no cables to install and notebook users are free to travel anywhere they like without the need for accessories. Read on for some advantages and advice on how to choose wireless network components.
Why go with with a Wireles Network?
Price
Wireless network components are very affordable. Recently, prices for networking devices based on the popular 11-megabit-per-second 802.11b wireless standard have dropped considerably since the introduction of its sister device, the new 54-mbps 802.11g, which also works with 802.11b devices.
Prices on products using the older 802.11a standard have also dropped but not as fast as the 11b and 11g. The 802.11a also offers 54-mbps theoretical maximum speeds, but it does use the less crowded 5.4-GHz frequency range so is less prone to interference than 802.11b and 802.11g, which run in the crowded 2.4-GHz range (also used by Bluetooth products, some cordless phones, and other household electronics equipment).
Compatibility, Speed and Convenience
Dual-band 802.11a/b/g equipment can be rather expensive but they are the best choice for compatibility in an office setup but for most home users they really are a little over-the-top. Do note that the fastest wireless technologies still can’t compete with standard Ethernet connections (maximum speed of 100 mbps) but they are definitely more convenient.
What Wireless Network Components Will you Need?
You will need an adapter or network interface card for each PC you want to connect to the network. In addition, you'll also need a router. This is like a switchboard that directs all data traffic between PCs on your network and between your network and your Internet connection.
Wireless access points (that connect wireless networks to wired ones) are another important factor to consider. The hardware communicates with Wi-Fi adapters and allows the data in radio signals to reach the wired network, and the Internet.
Wireless network components start with a single adapter connecting to a single access point. The majority of wireless home gateways act as access points but specialized access points are available for businesses wanting to migrate to 802.11g (or 802.11a) without stranding legacy 802.11b users or having to install two access points.
