Wireless Router

Question

Having bought a wireless router do I need a wireless network card in my desktop pc? I can get the Internet working with the ethernet cable but when I unplug it and use the adaptor it recongnises it but the Internet does not work. Help!

turbohack · Answer

Yes, a desktop needs a wireless card (typically PCI) to talk to a wireless router. You mention using your adaptor ?   Try this section of the forum for more wireless help:   http://www.dellcommunity.com/supportforums/board?board.id=netwkint   Tony

mikjc · Answer

Thanks Tony. Yeh I mentioned an adaptor...its the wireless adaptor I got with the wireless router that goes in the USB port. Does that mean I don't need a wireless router card in the pc with having an adaptor?   Mike

mtabernig · Answer

For what I understand you are trying to connect a desktop computer to a wireless router.

That is not a problem. Connect the new router to the (Cable or DSL) modem first Then install the WiFi adapter on your computer. There are a few different adapters but a USB or a internal, PCI is one of the most popular in our days.

Ok, that is the hardware, now you need to setup the router and the pc for them to be able to communicate via WiFi and that is a bit tricky.

I suggest following the router instructions step by step and that involves connecting the computer and the router physically with a cable temporarily to be able to access the router setup protocol.

I would suggest to have a friend or the cable company to help you with this if it becomes too difficult for you. Is an experience that can be a bit frustrating if you are not familiar with setting up wireless system protocols.

mikjc · Answer

Thanks I'll try it again. I think I'm struggling because I have Vista and for whatever reason there is no download for my region (UK). There is a download available for mine but its North America!   Mike

mtabernig · Answer

Vista has another set of problems. it is not that much different than XP but try to find the instructions for setting up Vista with WiFi.   You will be ok. Just follow the instructions step by step.

karl_lvl2tech · Answer

what is the brand and/or model of the wireless usb adapter that you will be using? if your using a vista you most probably have to download and update a vista driver for that :smileyindifferent:

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

Wireless Router

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