If all want to game then wired would be better, but it sounds like the kids will just be browsing.  Wireless will definately add cost.  A wired D-Link ( DI-604) is cheap, and they also have one ( DI-707P) with a printserver built in.  Some things to consider.  Also think about the kids and notebooks and if wired they would stay on a desk.

Message Edited by johnallg on 11-06-2003 06:42 PM

Seriously,  if it's not that much trouble, I really would wire any desktops you plan to connect.  I have three desktops wire connected to a Dell TrueMobile Wireless 2300 (it's a 4 port router) and use the wireless for my notebook.  Hey, it's got to be portable.

Basically, wireless routers with at least 4 wired connections have gotten so cheap, it's hard to turn down.  I'm sure it's cheaper to wire the kids' PC's, but maybe not as convenient.

You said brother-in-law would have to get under the house, so plan carefully.  But you've still got more flexibility than a house on a slab.  I added on to my house a little over a year ago and the project included a home office.  Before the sheetrock was hung, I ran cat5 cables to the office from the kids' rooms.  I just dropped the cables through closets or cabinets in adjoining rooms.

You don't even have to know how to put the ends on the cables. If you do, or know someone who can, great.  You can go to Radio Shack and just get the jacks, connect the cat5 cables you run and then buy pre-made cables.  Check Wal-Mart.  Recently I bought a couple of Belkin 14' cat5e cables on the clearance aisle for $4.00 each.

I am enjoying my wireless connection even though I had a slight problem getting it to stay connected.  I thank all those who participate in this & the other forums for their input.  I found the information I needed to correct the issue in this forum and all systems have been functioning perfectly since.