Connecting wirelessly to DSL modem
 

Rather complicated networking situation here. We have DSL at our house, coming in through a modem/router, which we then pipe through a switch so both my brother and I can use it. No big deal there. However, we have at least one other computer we'd like to get online that can't be physically connected to this modem.

My idea was to just use a wireless card to connect to the switch, and feed off our DSL. Except, I'm not entirely sure what hardware we need to do this. This isn't exactly a conventional setup here, and I've never fussed with wireless networks before. Is a wireless router connected to the switch all I'd need? Would we need more than one to connect two wireless computers?

Alright, let me see if I get this straight.

You have a combination modem/router, which you feed to a switch that connects two computers, right?

If that's the case, then what I would do is just get a wireless router and replace the switch with that, and if the third computer isn't wireless ready, also get a USB dongle (NOT A PCI CARD) and install that.

Most wireless routers are combination wireless/ethernet routers, so you should be able to install this with little to no hassle. Just... avoid the Linksys WRV54G... I have one, and it's been one gigantic problem after another.

Hell, avoid Linksys altogether, IMO. D-link is supposed to be pretty good.

Don't you guys have DSL modem/router/switch/wireless all-in-one devices? I know most people use them in Europe (manufactured by all the major companies like D-Link, Linksys, Netgear and so on) and it's really convenient to have all these functions integrated into a single device.

I've never had issues with LinkSys, and only had issues with D-Link. Go figure.

Anyways, LinkSys, and Netgear is what I'd recommend. And yes, you only need a wireless router.

How does one of those work exactly though? I just bought a new PC that will be going where my current one is and would like to network the two PCs together on the same broadband connection. Wouldn't also mind doing so for my XBOX, problem is all three of them will be in three different rooms...

Other than a wireless router, what else would be needed?

I'd assume a combo switch/router/modem/wireless/toaster is expensive. If you need a switch still, what exactly is the point of a modem/router combo?

And yes, just replace the switch with a wireless router.

sabbey, all you would need is a router. Wireless if you're not having both as a hardwire connection.

Using Ad-Hoc is also a possibility (you get wireless as well so he gets it from your PC)

The question though, will I need to replace the current ethernet card? Not sure if it's wireless...

It's a GVC-REALTEK Ethernet 10/100 PCI Adapter. While the new PC is only listed as coming with an Integrated 10/100/1000 Ethernet card. I know the video card is PCI-E, so I don't know if it will be as well. Not that it matters, the new PC will be where the modem is anyway. ;)

Integrated means that it will be probably built in near your parallel or Serial ports on your motherboard. You don't need your old card, but you might as well keep it handy.

Okay, I didn't know the router could send the connection to the other computer just as it is. Was figuring I'd have to do some upgrading first...

Oh well, anyone care to recommend a good router. Am looking to spend less than $100.

So what I'm looking for is a combo router/switch/wireless thingy, and I'll just use it to replace the switch we're using now? I was figuring all-in-one devices like that would be expensive too.

EDIT: Yeah, I found what I need. Seems simple enough, if a bit pricey. $50+ isn't really what I was hoping to spend on this, but we'll see. Thanks for the advice!

Not really, it's the most common option nowadays, everybody I know who is on DSL uses a combo DSL Modem/Router box. You can pick up a no-frills one for as much as a fancy-ish standard router.

At least, in the UK.

Note that a combo router/switch/wireless access point should have a built-in DSL modem as well, but these don't seem to be available in the States for whatever reason.

Hell, why would anyone want to use more than one device for internet access on multiple computers?

If you're going for wireless, you still need wireless adapters, you know. Ethernet =/= Wireless

Well, both have Ethernet cards, so I guess I am fine. I also just noticed the PC has a Wireless Network Wizard, so... ;)

Having a wireless network wizard does not mean that you have the appropriate hardware. Try again.

And, I already said I am going out to buy the router. Try Again, indeed! ;)

You need to buy the appropriate wireless network card as well in order to use a wireless connection. Computers are not witchcraft. And stop winking.

No you're not. You'll notice as soon as you try to go wireless with wires, though ... ;-)

It is easiest to keep only ONE router.
According to simple networking hardware, you have:
Internet > to...
Modem (DSL/Cable/Dialup) > to...
Router >
Switch(s) >
PC(s)
*Note that some connections may only require just a router, or just a modem (in your case, both, and you have it in one device).

So, you don't really need another router. Routers want a connection to a WAN. They do have accesspoints built in, but some really try to force you (with a knife.... AR!) to establish a WAN connection first.

So, in an environment, you want 1 router with multiple switches.

If your looking to buy a small device, get a wireless switch.

If you want to get rid of your clutter of devices, buy something that does it all (as stated in the above posts) and give your old equipment to me! :)

Might end up doing that if this is any indication...

Ah screw it, not worth the hassle! :D