Ok when we moved Verizon sent us a new router.. this one has 5 ethernet ports and also is a wireless router. We would like to get one of those usb things that makes our older desktop able to connect wirelessly so that we have 2 computers online and we can also take the usb thing away so the kids can't get online on that computer when we don't want them to.... Sooooo I looked yesterday at Walmart and there was different things.. some said G some said N some said something else. What is it that I need to be looking for. It's a Westell model 7500 if that matters.
Sommer, we have it let me ask DH when he comes home tonight and I will tell you got. I know we have all our computers hooked up to one router.
802.11 g and 802.11 n refer to technology standards that dictate how much bandwidth your wireless device can handle. 802.11 n is the newest standard although its been out for a while. I would plop my money down on the 802.11 n option since its faster than the g.
Ok, n is what I had in my hand, then I paniced because I had no clue what I needed and didn't want to be stuck with a $50 toy that I couldn't even play with..lol. Thanks
Ok.. next time I hit Walmart I will grab it. Will I have to program the computer to work with the router then or is it just like a plug and play thing? There was NO paperwork with this router when it came... and I am not very tech savvy
Just be aware you need to enable the proper security settings on your router and wireless usb device to keep the bad guys out of your computer :evil:. Your wireless signal can be transmitted a good distance. You never know who could pickup your signal. I recommend you give Verizon's tech support a call to help you with any security settings on the router. You might also try to find a tech savvy person to help configure your security settings.
When you say good distance... how far are we talking? We are in the country, we have some neighbors but most are family or have lived up here for ever and a day, and no one is really all that close... maybe 1/4 mile is the closest.
You should be fine with your connection being secure. However make sure your router is wirless N before you buy a wirless N USB We have wireless G and we had to return a Wirless N they werent compatible
It all depends on a variety of circumstances i.e. type of router, interferrence, where the router is located in your home (upstairs or in the basement) etc. Typically a wireless signal can transmit anywhere up to 100 ft to 300 ft. If your nearest neighbor is 1/4 mile away you should be fine. If you live with houses all around, within 300 ft, then you'll want to be aware someone can tap into your signal if you don't setup the proper security settings.
You should be ok not putting a network key on your router if you are a quarter mile from anyone else. But it is also a good way to ensure the kids are not on the internet when you do not want them to be. The computers can be set up so each time a password is needed which only you have.
