wireless setup help

[Ade007]

I would like to set up a wireless connection for a laptop I just got. I also have an old desktop pc connected to my cable modem now. The problem is I think I may have spyware on the desktop. I won't be sharing files with my pc. In fact, I will only use the internet on the laptop until I get a replacement desktop. Can I still do the wireless setup? I just got the laptop and I would like to use it.

Also, which wireless router is the best, linksys, netgear or d-link and can they be mixed? I purchased the Linksys but if this is not that good I can still change it. I also wanted to know if i can replace the linksys n notebook adapter with d-link since it is about $20 cheaper but the sales rep said it would work well if I do this.

Thanks

[redwudz]

Most any wireless router has hard wired connections also. I would hard wire your older PC into the router via CAT 5 cable if you want to give it internet access and use the wireless part for your laptop. Unless you enable file sharing, the two won't be able to talk to each other.

For wireless routers, there are several formats. Most common is 'G'., and that's probably what your laptop has. If the notebook wireless NIC (Network adapter) is built in, you would need a PCI-E or maybe a USB type wireless NIC to replace it. I would just use what you have presently.

If you don't have a laptop NIC and have to buy one, usually it's best to buy the same brand as the router, but they should most all be compatible

There is some difference in routers, but not a lot. If they are compatible with your laptop's NIC, that's the main thing.

For the Linksys, you would need to tell us the model number and someone here may be familiar with it.

[Ade007]

Thanks so much for your quick response.

The model number for the router is LinksysWRT300N - its a broadbang n wireless router. The notebook adapter model numger is LinksysWPC300N.

[redwudz]

That appears to be a wireless 'N' router. Especially with a new format like that, it may be a little more difficult to 'fine tune'. But I think I would use a compatible model for router and NIC from the same company. If the wireless part works for you, the wired part to the desktop computer should be fairly easy, if that's the way you want to hook it up.

But we may have members that are more familiar with that model and the 'N' format. Thanks for posting the models. That helps a lot.