A simple generic answer--No, you don't have to have a computer wired to the router. You connect/"wire" the cable modem to the wireless router. You install the wireless USB adapter in the computer.
Your best bet is to move the computer back into the room with the modem and the router until you get it all working and then move the computer back downstairs where you want it. The reason for doing this- if you have problems getting it all set up, you'll know whether you just don't have it all configured correctly, or if it's not working because the signal from the wireless router cannot reach the wireless USB in the computer for some reason. (Some construction materials between floors blocking the signal, etc. While rare, it does happen.)
This is a generic answer. If you will post model numbers of the equipment you have and specifics of your computer (brand, operating system, processor, etc) you can be directed with specific help.
Much info and help on www.wown.com and www.practicallynetworked.com
First the main question, then the situation:
Do I HAVE to have at least one computer physically wired to a wireless router to get internet on a network? Is there a setup where all computers are wireless?
I have cable internet through Comcast. I initially had the computer connected to the modem in one room upstairs in my house (the only room in the house with the comcast cable internet connection). I recently bought an HDTV with a DVI port and moved my computer to the TV room downstairs, running 50 ft of eithernet cable to connect the cable modem to my computer's ethernet port. I am tired of the cord in the hallway and running down the stairs so I bought a Belkin 802.11g wireless router and a Microsoft USB wireless adapter, thinking I could connect my computer wirelessly to the router. I opened everything up and read in the instructions manuals how one computer has to be wired to the router. I have done some searches and have not found where I can have a one computer wireless networks but have also not found anyone else asking this question. I am currenrtlly renting and may be moving so I do not want to start drilling holes in exterior walls to run ethernet cable and would simply like to know for future reference if my computer will always need to be wired to the internet access point making the whole wireless router network pointless for only one computer.
Thanks in advance for your responses and please don't laugh too hard at my ignorance.
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