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Cut the cords with a Wi-Fi network

Step 2:

What you'll need

Before you get started with this project, we recommend that you have the following:

  • A wireless router
  • Wireless adapters and/or a wireless-enabled system or laptop
  • A broadband connection to the Internet (typically via cable or DSL modem)
  • An Ethernet cable
  • Pen and paper to write down current network settings, such as IP and MAC addresses
  • The IP address assigned to your system by your ISP if you use a static IP address
  • If you use DSL, the username and password assigned to you by your ISP
  • The MAC address for all wireless network adapters

Wireless router

D-Link DI-624 AirPlus Xtreme G router
The core of any Wi-Fi network is a wireless router or gateway. There are plenty to choose from on the market, and they differ in their speeds, feature sets, ease of use, and price.
Editors' First Choice
The DI-624 is fast, and it combines easy installation with advanced security options, making it a good choice for homes and offices alike.

Read D-Link DI-624 AirPlus Xtreme G router review

Check latest prices

This product is available at the following retail stores
  • Best Buy
  • Circuit City
  • CompUSA
  • Fry's
  • Office Depot
  • Staples
More selections:
Motorola WR850G wireless broadband router: Editors' Choice

Read review

Check latest prices

Linksys WRT54GS Wireless-G broadband router:

Read review

Check latest prices



Wireless adapter for a PC

Microsoft MN-730 wireless PCI adapter
Sure, most desktop systems come with integrated NICs these days. But why not cut the cord and let your desktop go wireless?
Editors' First Choice
One of the first 802.11g desktop adapters, the MN-730 is easy enough for beginners and fast enough for everyone.

Read Microsoft MN-730 wireless PCI adapter review

Check latest prices

This product is available at the following retail stores
  • CompUSA
More selections:
D-Link DWL-G520 AirPlus Xtreme G Wireless PCI Adapter:

Read review

Check latest prices

Zyxel B-220 wireless USB stick:

Read review

Check latest prices



Wireless adapter for a laptop

Netgear WG511T 108Mbps wireless PC Card
These days, laptops and wireless go together like Starbucks and lattes. But if your laptop isn't wireless ready, you'll need a wireless network adapter.
Editors' First Choice
The WG511T is a good choice for speed demons and those looking for a long-range PC Card adapter.

Read Netgear WG511T 108Mbps wireless PC Card review

Check latest prices

This product is available at the following retail stores
  • Best Buy
  • Circuit City
  • CompUSA
  • Fry's
  • Staples
More selections:
Linksys WPC54GS Wireless-G notebook adapter with SpeedBooster:

Read review

Check latest prices

D-Link DWL-G650 AirPlus Xtreme G Wireless CardBus Adapter:

Read review

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