How to Set up a Wireless Computer Network

Networking computers and networking printers and other components with each other are no longer just a business need. Wireless networks are common place in many homes today. Wireless networks allow you to share Internet access. It allows you to transfer files and even print out materials and documents from one computer to any printer that is on your wireless network. Installing a home wireless network is a relatively easy project. Follow these steps to create your home wireless network

Step 1 – Choose the Wireless Equipment

Before you start to connect things and configure and rearrange your equipment, you must start with the basics. You must first choose the equipment that is going to fit your needs most. Today there are so many different wireless devices available to you that it sometimes makes your purchase decisions much more confusing than it needs to be. Today you can choose from equipment that supports different wireless networking technologies. These networking technologies are: 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g. The best wireless technology available is 802.11g because it offers excellent performance. This technology is also virtually compatible with every type of wireless equipment on the market. 

Pick a wireless router that can handle 802.11g technology. A wireless router is essential in your networking setup because it will give you the ability to convert the signal coming across the Internet broadband into a wireless broadcast. Think of a cordless telephone—the wireless router acts the same way the base of a cordless does. 

Step 2 – Choose your Broadband Provider

For your computer networking needs, pick a broadband provider that supports wireless networking. Most of the large national providers support the wireless networking, however some of the smaller, local providers do not. Make sure you check what is available in your area

Step 3 – Purchase Computer and Printer with Built in Wireless Networking Capabilities

Do you have a computer and printer that has built-in wireless networking capabilities already? If so, you are set to go. If you have older computers that do not have this ability built  in, you will have to purchase a wireless network adapter. The adapter is responsible for connecting your computer to the wireless network. The wireless network adapter is the element that will "talk" to the wireless router and communicate information back and forth.

Step 4- Connect your Wireless Router

Locate your modem. Unplug it and turn it off. Connect the wireless router to the modem. The modem must stay connected directly to the Internet (either through cable or telephone). Plug one end of the network cable (this will be included with your router) into the modem and plug the other end of the network cable into the Internet, WAN, or WLAN port on the wireless router.

Step 5 – Configure your Wireless Router

Temporarily connect your computer to the wireless router.  Turn on your computer and go to an Internet explorer page. With the purchase of the wireless router you will have received an Internet address that will allow you to configure your wireless router for encryption reasons.

Step 6 – Connect your Computers and Printers

Connect your computer to the wireless network. If your computer does not have built in wifi capabilities, plug the wireless adapter into the computer’s USB port and connect through the wireless adapter.