Just got a new Inspiron 660 (Windows 8), and while setting thing up, I'm working with my notebook at the same time.

I'm using a LAN connection on the desktop, and I noticed that when the desktop is shut down, I lose my wireless connection on the notebook.

I guess it is possible that this was also the case with my previous desktop, but never noticed, since the desktop was always up and running from morning til night.

Is this normal, or can I prevent the router from "sleeping" when the desktop is shut down?  My research so far suggests that the router is put to sleep if the desktop goes to sleep.   I guess a work-a-round would be to use a wireless connection for the desktop.