How to Set Up a Home Wireless Network

   If you have a high-speed connection in your home like a cable modem and numerous computers, you may want to make a home wireless network. This way, everyone can take advantage of the high internet speed.

   A wireless network uses radio waves to communicate in your home using a wireless router. Just like receiving reception on your radio, these radio waves permeate your home emanating from the wireless router. The wireless router removes the necessity for wires in the walls.  Basically, the cable signal from the wall enters the cable modem; the line from the cable modem which would usually connect to a single computer connects to the wireless router. The wireless router then sends the signal out so your other computers set up to receive wireless signals can get on the internet. Laptops sold today are already set up for receiving wireless signals. Older laptops and desktop computers may require some configuration or wireless network cards.

   To begin, you need a wireless router. These are available at local stores or you can purchase one on the web. They are not really expensive but make sure you purchase one of the latest models possible. This will help insure you get the fastest speed currently available with the best possible security features. Once you have the router, you need to read the instructions. Often, these are on CD. It seems manufacturers just don’t do much printing anymore. The CD will walk you through the installation of the router and get it up and running. Most often, the router is connected to a desktop computer which is stationary so the wireless router. Once the router is communicating with the desktop and it is on the internet most of the job is done.

   If you have wireless ready laptops just make sure the button or switch on the laptop is on for wireless connection. If you have desktop machines with wireless network cards installed, try to make sure the antenna is in the open and can easily receive signals. Setting up each home network is different. One thing to take into consideration is security. Routers come with an application that helps you set up the security features on your router. You need to make sure your network is encrypted so your neighbor or someone parked on the street can not access it.