Set Up Your Home Wireless Network - In Four Steps

Most everything we do on a computer is procedural. Skip a step and we have learned that what we are trying to do on the computer will not work. It’s the same in setting up a home wireless network. Skip a step and you won’t be surfing. Plus you will be totally frustrated. Most home wireless routers come with quick-step guides that will take you step by step through the procedures. But if you have never tackled a home network or tried to set one up on wireless, you may stumble.

So I was going to do a blurb on how to hook up a wireless network when I received an email from Microsoft with several tip and tricks - and guess what? One of the pages had to do with wireless networks and how to set up up one at home. I went through the guide and was pleasantly surprised that the guide was one of the better ones I have seen. Not only is the guide written in simple terms, but listed are some very helpful and insightful information.

But before romping over to the site, let me add a few sentences that may also help.

Coverage area: Most routers will list the distance in which you should, in theory, be able to obtain a wireless signal. But this distance is usually overstated. It is kind of like the EPA’s gas mileage claims for new cars. The small print includes the statement ‘your mileage may vary.’ Same with routers. Some of the newer models come with two or three antennas - while looking impressive on the outside, they may or may not extend your range. After setting up your router, you may notice that your range is only 20 or 30 feet from the router using a laptop computer.

You may need to purchase additional equipment such as a better antenna or a range extender or repeater to reach the areas of your home or into your backyard if you wish to surf at a greater distance.

Interference: 2.4GHz cordless phones may interfere with your signal, as well. You may notice excessive wireless signal loss or disconnects when someone answers the phone. You may have to opt for a five GHz phone system if this becomes a problem.

To the right of the article are more tips on how to improve your wireless network.

Oh, before I forget. Make sure you at least set up a WEP or, best yet, a WPA for a secure wireless connection. My neighbor across the street is using a Linksys wireless router. How do I know? His network shows up as an unsecured network on my listing of available connections. Duh! And yes, I have mentioned this to him but he doesn’t seem to care.

Microsoft’s Guide To A Wireless Network Setup

[tags]microsoft, wireless, network, 4 steps, easy, router, adapter[/tags]