LG Wireless Phone

wireless internet at home?

I just got a new laptop and I am completely in the dark about getting it connected to the internet in my home, and I need some help figuring out what I need. The end result I would like is me on my couch with my laptop, connected wirelessly to the internet. Here's what I have that I think is related to internet: Dell Inspiron 1525 brand new, Intel Pentium Dual Core T2390, Internet search and portal, Vista Home Basic, Integrated 10/100 network car, Integrated 56k modem, Intel 4965AGN Wireless-N Mini Card, No ISP. So I know I need an ISP. I am thinking of going Qwest DSL, either 1.5 mbps or 7 mbps (any recommendations?). Do I need a wireless modem, a different wireless card for my computer or what do I need to reach my end goal? Am I right in thinking that I will get Qwest DSL (which I have already checked is available for me) which will come through cable (?), and that the wireless modem would be hooked up to that, and then the wireless card on my laptop will pick up the signal and I'll be able to be on the net? I may be totally off. I am planning to do mosly email, some pictures, maybe low-end games (nothing major), maybe a little video, but mostly email and web surfing. Right now, I have NOTHING at home except a cell phone through AT&T. I don't have a land phone line, no cable subscription, no internet access (yet). I hope this is enough information for you to help me. I know it's like I'm coming out of the dark ages here, but please be gentle! :) Thanks a lot!

Public Comments

1. When you get an ISP you will need a wireless router to connect to the modem. Aside from setting it up, that's about it
2. Qwest DSL is fine. 1.5mbps isn't that fast anymore, i'd suggest the 7mbps if you can afford it. The one downfall of DSL is bandwidth. The more people on the internet, the slower your speed gets. So around peak times like 5PM-7PM, you'll be crawling, but during dead time like 2AM, you'll be flying. You need a wireless router either by LinkSys or Netgear I'd recommend. Here's the one I use at home, it's at a fair price and works great: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833124190 Once you get your router, the DSL modem will plug into your landline phoneline (yes you'll need to get on for DSL, it will be included in the price) and your router plugs into your modem using a Cat-5 cable (buy one separately, or Qwest may provide one), then your router sends a signal to your Wireless N Card. You'll need to setup the router with basic IP information (Qwest can help) then you are ready to sit on the couch and surf. Good Luck!
3. You need: . DSL is on sale for $19.99/mth now. Cable company likes to sell you how much cables are better and faster than DSL. It doesn't matter. The speed bottlenecks at the router. . Get a DSL modem ($30) - D-Link DCM-202 USB/Ethernet Cable Modem $30 at NewEgg.com . Get a wirelss-N router ($50), since your laptop is ready for N. It is much faster than g.- level one WBR-6000 802.11n Draft 1.0 Router $45 at Buy.com Go surfing.
4. 1) Yes, you need an ISP. a 2mbps or 3mbps connection would be fast enough (the internet itself rarely peaks above 1.5mbps), but it's your choice whether to spend the extra money to eke out a few more bytes per second. (You aren't going to see 7mbps downloads from any server not local to you for at least a few years.) 2) Qwest will give you a wired internet connection and (probably) your choice of a wired or, at additional monthly cost, a wireless, modem. It's a lot more cost effective to buy your own wireless router. They're not expensive and, if treated properly, will last long enough that the Smithsonian will want to add it to its antique collection. 3) As a professional, I recommend the Linksys WRT54GS router. I can't remember the last time I had to replace one. Oh, yes - it was never. They generate a LOT of heat, so don't place the router on any electrical equipment (the heat from the equipment will rise up into the router), or near a wall 9that blocks air flow) or in any kind of enclosure. they do shut down pretty well if they overheat, but why stress it? You'll see, after a while, whether the connection (if you buy 1.5mbps) is fast enough for your games. If not, just call them and buy 7mbps. 1.5 is certainly fast enough for almost anything else. (Just don't try watching a video, downloading a file and playing a game all at the same time.) Oh, and you don't need to add anything to your laptop - except that it has to get rid of heat too - so make sure your legs aren't blocking the fan holes. (NEVER put it directly on something soft like a couch - on a hard flat board on a couch is ok.)
5. I have the VERIZON USB 720 wirless moden connected to a Cradlepoint CTR-480 which will accomidate up 12 computers at the same time. This virtually makes my whole house a WiFi home. Verizon doesn't tell you about the wirless router because they want you to buy another modem. You can also use the SPRINT and ATT wireless modems. The wirlless routers are available at Best Buy or Cradlepoint. com.