The network adapter you see is really software installed by AOL. It is not a "real" NIC.
All router manufacturers recommend you connect to the wireless router with a wired connection to perform the initial configurations (and any subsequent firmware upgrades). You could probably install the wireless adapter on the PC and connect to the router wirelessly, using the router's default wireless configuration. From there you could make configuration changes, but if one parameter is changed in error, you may be unable to connect wirelessly to the router, which is why making router configuration changes over a wired connection is recommended. A wired NIC is relatively inexpensive, cheap insurance so you can always access the router.
Thanks for clarifying the model of the modem/router.
Thanks for the reply. According to Device manager, I have a network adapter (listed as PPPoEWin Miniport). Not sure if this is the same as NIC, though. Also, the router I have bought is the DG834G, which is the wireless version. What I don't understand is why I need to set up the wired network connection even though I intend to replace this asap with the new wireless network, including wireless USB network adapter. So whatever I buy to connect via the wired RJ45 connection will then be disconnected so that I can plug in the wireless adapter.
It sounds like your PC does not have a network interface card, which would have the required RJ-45 ethernet connector on it. On the PC, open Device Manager and expand the Network Adapters entry (if there is one). If you have a network adapter, it will be listed here. If none is there, you can add one for about US$10. Major brands like Linksys, D-Link and Netgear all offer them and they are readily available .
Quite possibly the connector next to your RJ-11 modem connection is an available connection for a telephone.
I'm a bit concerned about the NetGear DG834 you mention. It is a combination modem and router, but it only supports wired connections, not wireless. You either need a device that supports wireless as well or a wireless access point, which will plug into the DG834.
_Paladin
795 Posts
0
February 8th, 2005 21:00
ellisonweich,
The network adapter you see is really software installed by AOL. It is not a "real" NIC.
All router manufacturers recommend you connect to the wireless router with a wired connection to perform the initial configurations (and any subsequent firmware upgrades). You could probably install the wireless adapter on the PC and connect to the router wirelessly, using the router's default wireless configuration. From there you could make configuration changes, but if one parameter is changed in error, you may be unable to connect wirelessly to the router, which is why making router configuration changes over a wired connection is recommended. A wired NIC is relatively inexpensive, cheap insurance so you can always access the router.
SWeich
7 Posts
0
February 8th, 2005 21:00
_Paladin
795 Posts
0
February 8th, 2005 21:00
ellisonweich,
It sounds like your PC does not have a network interface card, which would have the required RJ-45 ethernet connector on it. On the PC, open Device Manager and expand the Network Adapters entry (if there is one). If you have a network adapter, it will be listed here. If none is there, you can add one for about US$10. Major brands like Linksys, D-Link and Netgear all offer them and they are readily available .
Quite possibly the connector next to your RJ-11 modem connection is an available connection for a telephone.
I'm a bit concerned about the NetGear DG834 you mention. It is a combination modem and router, but it only supports wired connections, not wireless. You either need a device that supports wireless as well or a wireless access point, which will plug into the DG834.