Wireless Networking

[nebsta]

I am thinking of installing a wireless network to share a ADSL connection and was wondering:

1) What does it mean by X number of ports in a router?

2) What speed is satisfactory for a wireless network with 2 desktops and a laptop? 11mbps, 22mbps or 54mbps?

3) Can I still use Norton firewall with the network or will this cause problems?

4) If I situate the router next to one of the desktop PCs can I connect that PC with a cable instead of a using a wireless network card?

[renegade600]

1.Number of wired connections
2.the faster the better especially if doing alot of downloading via wireless
3.you still need software firewall - nortons okay
4.yes you can.

[nebsta]

Thanx, sorry to keep posting but....

...would the following router be suitable:

http://www.ebuyer.com/customer/products/index.html?action=c2hvd19wcm9kdWN0X292ZXJ2aWV3&product_uid=52629

I am unsure if i need a wireless access point built into the router?

[ceh383]

Yes it will work. Make sure any wireless cards you buy are also 805.11g compatible to get the most out of your wireless network.

[renegade600]

It will work, but I see more problems with off brand routers than with namebrands (Linksys and Netgear). Also for some reason there are fewer problems when all of the cards are the same brand as the router. Finally as suggested in the previous reply, get the 802.11g so your downloads will be faster and the distance between will be further.

[tbb9216]

ok for your wireless network, i recommend the linksys 802.11g router/ap, because its all you need all in one box, it just sets up and does the job very simply, and has great WEP (you really should use this). and the linksys usb adapters are great as well, especially now that they are owned by cisco:) and the comment about .11g getting better distance is false, .11b and .11g get the same distance, its .11a that gets a better distance...just fyi...