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General discussion

simple home network

by debgeenyc Oct 4, 2004 7:28AM PDT

I have two desktop computers that I'd like to share a DSL internet connection between. I'd like to set up a wireless connection.

Computer 1: is connected to DSL via modem and is running Win XP Pro (has NIC card of course) and USB 2
Computer 2: has NIC card and open PCI slots, but has USB 1, and is running Win 98se

Do I just need a router for computer 1 and a wireless card for computer 2? Is wireless G the way to go?

Computer 2 is in a different room in my apt., and the back of the cpu is under a desk against a wall. Will this be bad for a wireless connection? Will I have possibly reposition it?

Thanks in advance.

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3 Posts
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Re: simple home network
by Michael Geist Oct 4, 2004 10:17AM PDT

"Do I just need a router for computer 1 and a wireless card for computer 2? Is wireless G the way to go?"

Yes, you are on the right track.

"Computer 2 is in a different room in my apt., and the back of the cpu is under a desk against a wall. Will this be bad for a wireless connection? Will I have possibly reposition it?"

Depending on the type of wireless network device you will be using will answer this question. Some wireless USB adapters are attached via a cable so you change the position for the best signal.

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Re: simple home network
by debgeenyc Oct 4, 2004 10:26AM PDT

Is it better to use a PCI slot instead of USB, especially because computer 2 has USB 1? Or will USB be more flexible for the reason you were saying (positioning.) Also, wouldn't it be hard to find something compatible with USB 1? I don't want to have to upgrade the USB too.

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Re: simple home network
by Michael Geist Oct 4, 2004 7:16PM PDT

The only hit in speed you will see between a USB 1.1 device and PCI, is in local file transfer. Internet speed would likely be unaffected because it is running at a lower speed then USB 1.1s 12mbs maximum.

The same holds true for USB 2.0 vs USB 1.1

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