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6849
February 8th, 2005 20:00
setting up a wireless home network
I need advice. I currently access Broadband via ADSL modem, into USB port on my PC. I am attempting to setup a wireless home network (ISP AOL), using approved Netgear DG834 router and USB wireless adapter. Before I can install the wireless system, I need to configure the PC using wired network, via the router. The instructions tell me to connect the router to my PC's ethernet connector (using an ethernet cable, as provided). Problem: although I appear to have a PCI network adapter (with socket beside the modem socket and using a similar, smaller conection (RJ11?) on the chassis) I have no RJ45 socket on my PC for this ethernet cable. Do I need an extra bit of kit (external ethernet adapter), or a cable that allows me to connect an ethernet cable to a different port on my PC?
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_Paladin
795 Posts
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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
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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.