Laptops, Wireless cards and networking...
 

I need to get a laptop for school. I am leaning towards a Dell. (No, a Mac isn't even an option ;) )

I already have a PC, and I have cable internet. I'm thinking I need a wireless card and a network thingie so I can connect to the internet sans cables. Laptops don't come with cable modem thingies right?

Help!

:) thank you!

They come with cable modem thingies, for the most part.. unless you're getting something really ancient.

You'll have to look for a wireless router, and some sort of WiFi card.

Since I'm such a Mac-head I would normally say airport card & airport... ;)

If your going with Dell, I think these days you have to specifically ask them to remove the wireless card if you don't want it.

Most laptops come standard with 802.11g built in and all come with 10/100 ethernet ports built in as well. Assuming that by "cable modem thingy" you meant "ethernet card" you will be fine. I don't know if there are any laptops that have an on-board cable modem, but you wouldn't want one anyway. What you need simply is a wireless routher and a laptop with integrated wireless 802.11g connectivity. Then you will be golden. You can look at onboard bluetooth connectivity as well. My new dell laptop is pretty decent. No complaints.

dude dont get a dell (sorry if you already have)

I personally would lean towards a Toshiba or an HP/Compaq laptop. I deal with Enterprise level laptops, and Dell have been nothing but trouble, I dont have a 1 client without something wrong with their Dell....

Anyhow, like others before me said, you will get at LEAST an 802.11b wireless card, more than likely an 802.11g card, and all laptops will come with a 10/100 or even a 10/100/1000 ethernet card in it. That is what you will connect to your cable modem.

Now, regarding the cable modem, you have the modem already from your ISP? All you should need then is a wireless router/ap - i might suggest the Linksys WRT54g wireless access point/firewall/router. I think it should run you around $60 for it, but it is has a 4 port switch built in for hardwired computers, and 2 wireless antennas for your wireless access.

...oh my


(SOMEBODY had to say it!!!)

y'all were thinkin it, i just said it.....


/pirates