Wireless DSL Questions
 

Right now I have a wired internet connection, through AT&T DSL.

I am looking into changing to a wireless connection, as a present for The Boy for Christmas.

My questions are:

1) What are good wireless routers that are decently priced?

2) Are they easy to install, as in, do I just unplug the router I am using now and then plug in the new one?


The new one would mainly be for the Wii and for his Nintendo DS games. It amuses me when he gets on to a wireless netowrk with his DS and trades Pokemon only to exclaim, "THIS POKEMON SPEAKS JAPANESE, I DON'T KNOW WHAT IT DOES!"

I've found Netgear to be the most consistent brand. But you'll find proponents for just about any one on the market, so ymmv.

Installation and setup is usually pretty straight forward. The trickiest part is that you'll want to add security. That will consist of configuring an 'encryption key' on the router (a long string of letters and numbers). Then you'll have to enter that same key on each device that you want to connect into the wireless network. Most routers come with step-by-step instructions on how to do this on the router side, and the Wii/DS have simple interfaces for doing it on that side.

Perfect! That is exactly what I needed to know! Thank you.

I am a fan of Linksys: solid products and good C/S.

Take it from me: make sure to write your encryption key ON THE ROUTER. Use a P-Touch labeler or something that will not disappear. You lose that key and life becomes a challenge.

I know: I've done it TWICE!