[sarahd711]

I have set up our wireless network at home, but it took some time and I'm pretty amateur. That being said, I am moving into a house with 5 other girls soon, and I want to set up a wireless network so that we do not all have to be wired to a cable modem (we're going with cable internet). Our main use for the internet is everyday web-browsing (Facebook, school mail, etc.) and school-related searching. Some of us sometimes like to watch shows online, also.

Mostly, I am looking to find a router that will work best with all of the use it will be getting. Also, a router with good range. We will be living in a house with three floors, a basement, and an attic. The internet is going to mostly be used between two floors, the second and third floors, where our bedrooms are. Something cheap would be better, but if it is worth it I'm willing to spend more money. It doesn't need to be easy to set-up, I can usually figure these things out even if it takes a little time.

At home, I am using the WRT54G Linksys router between two floors (our first floor and second floor). The router and my bedroom (where I primarliy use my laptop) are on two opposite sides of the house and on different floors, but I still get a good signal. However, I'm not sure if this router will be good enough for the above situation.

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The one you have should be fine. I have a linksys wireless router at work and computers at the far end of our building (through manufacturing equipment, block walls, metal poles) still receive a strong signal. You should have no problem.

[fawoodward]

The one you have should be fine. I have a linksys wireless router at work and computers at the far end of our building (through manufacturing equipment, block walls, metal poles) still receive a strong signal. You should have no problem.

[Gravity Gripp]

The range of a wireless access point depends on what a house is made out of and what types of devices are present that could interfere with the signal. For example, if the house has nothing but dry wall, then you would get a much better signal on the other side of the house rather than if the walls were made from cinderblock. Also, keep in mind that florescent lights, microwaves, and even some cordless phones can interfere with the signal.

I would say to try the router that you have, see what kind of range you have. If you are not happy with the range, then you can look into getting an extender like this. There are also other ways to boost the signal on Linksys routers, but it becomes more technical and includes flashing the firmware.

Let us know if you have any more questions

[paulcomputerman]

From personal experience, I prefer D-Link over Linksys. Linksys routers tend to be less reliable, or at least they were about a year ago. Another thing to keep in mind is speed. Some newer routers are 802.11N, instead of B or G. N, B, and G are all compatible with each other, so any type of router in this range should be fine.

Paul

[sarahd711]

I'm going to stick with the router I have now and see how it works out. Thanks for your help!!