Right now I have Dell Dimension 2400 desktop QWEST DSL (local provider).


This modem connects directly to one desktop computer for Internet access. Built-in wireless capability is not available.

Right now my modem is the Qwest® Standard Modem: Actiontec® GT701
• Supports speeds up to 24Mbps
• Compatible with existing wireless networks
• Includes advanced security features: Firewall, Stateful Packet Inspection, NAT, Web site blocking, Web service blocking, Internet traffic logging, Denial of Service (DOS) protection

• Modem Features: Supports Microsoft Windows® 98, Windows 98SE, Windows Me, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Mac OS 9.2.2 or higher; Linux/BSD, Unix
• TCP/IP network protocol installed

At present I have it connected via ethernet to my desktop. In a few weeks I'll be getting rid of my desktop and replacing it with a Dell Inspiron 1501 with the Dell Wireless 1390 802.11g Mini Card (54Mbps), for Inspiron 1501, and am looking for suggestions on going wireless. I'm not the best at Internet/Wireless so I'm looking for advice on a possible wireless router, etc., or whatever would be the best means of taking my current connection wireless for a reasonable amount of money. Since the only info I can get from Qwest is that the have a wireless networking kit (router is $149) and the only info they give about the setup is plugging that into the first computer, and the network other computers wirelessly from there. Forgive my ignorance, but that doesn't sound like what I want. Any info/advice would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Well the good news is you have options. You have a built in router. All you need is a wireless access point that is 802.11g compatible. Some router are able to "Bridge" and be use in this way. I would look at the Linksys WTR54G router and research setting it in bridge mode. They are about $50 at Walmart.

It really all depends on if you are keeping the desktop. If so then a wireless access point is the best way to go.

If not then you will need a wireless router. This will replace the DSL router you are currently using. This will make it possible to connect to the DSL network through a wireless enabled laptop. Make sure there is relevant security in place when using a wireless router. WEP and Mac address filtering and NAT are a must really.

Wireless routers can be substituted for a wireless access point. My NetGear WGR614's all came with instructions on how to do this.

Perfect. I am getting rid of the desktop and was hoping I would just need the right router to replace it. Thanks for the help!