The setup of other manufacturers' routers would be similar, but not exactly the same in every detail. From here on, I'll be describing details specific to installing and configuring the Linksys router. Also, all the status and configuration screens are presented as web pages via your browser, which are fully accessible with a screen reader.
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From personal experience, I know the Linksys unit is easy to install and configure. Netgear, Belkin, and DLink offer similar units at similar prices. If you want to read more about these products, check out the web site. The Linksys EtherFast BEFW11S4, the same router/switch combination that also includes a wireless access point, is sold for about $180. For example, the Linksys EtherFast BEFSR4-1, a DSL/cable router with a four- port switch that supports both 10 and 100 Mbps speeds, is sold in most local computer stores for about $80. It is available from a variety of manufacturers, both with and without a wireless access point included. Remember, when a family member or household pet gets caught in exposed wire, not only can someone get hurt, but serious damage can be done to the computer at the end of that wire.Ī combination router and switch is the best choice for the central point of your home network. Resist the temptation to stretch long runs of wire in the open where they become hazards that people can trip over. The best compromise is to use wired network components in the main location, where the Internet Service Provider (ISP) cable or DSL modem and at least one computer are located, and wireless for the connections to any computers located too far away from that room for easy connection by wire. Wired network hardware is less expensive and runs at a higher speed, but wireless eliminates the drilling of holes and pulling wires from room to room. Your answers to these questions will help you decide whether to use a wired or a wireless network. Will all the computers and the high-speed Internet connection be located near each other in the same room? Or will the network cover computers in multiple rooms, possibly on different floors in the home? If different rooms are to be connected via the network, how easily can a network cable be run between these locations without incurring the wrath of the home decorator in the family? Finally, how comfortable are you with pulling cables inside walls and through attics, basements, or crawl spaces? Lunch 3: How Do I Select and Install the Hardware?īefore you select the hardware, it's important to analyze the physical environment.
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The second concludes the series with sharing files and peripherals, such as printers. The first covers selecting and installing the hardware. Now, in Part 2, we listen in on two more lunchtime conversations. Editor's Note: In May, the author discussed the reasons for building a home network and defined the computer terms involved.