Network Hardware

Router: This is considered the heart of your network and is the device that routes all the traffic to and from the Internet to the various computers on your network. It lets you share files and printers, and provides a basic layer of security from Internet threats.

High-speed Internet Connection (either DSL or cable): You can purchase High-speed Internet service from your local telephone (for DSL) or cable company. Both types of connections are considerably faster than dial-up access. High-speed Internet is also commonly referred to as broadband.

Modem: Connects your Internet service to your computer so you can surf the Internet and access your e-mail. Depending upon what type of broadband service you have, you must purchase or rent either a DSL or cable modem. Or, you can purchase a modem from your local electronics retailer or e-retail store. Linksys offers a gateway router which is an all-in-one solution that combines the functions of a router with a cable or DSL modem so that two separate devices are not required.

Network Adapter: Allows your computers to connect to the network. If you already have a wireless or network adapter pre-installed in your computer, you may not need to purchase one. There are different types of adapters available, depending on if you have a desktop or laptop computer.

For a desktop computer:

1) A PCI Adapter - connects inside your computer, requiring you to remove the outside case.

2) A USB Adapter - does not require you to remove the outside case since it simply plugs into a USB port on the outside of your computer.

For a laptop computer:

1) A PC (PCMCIA) Card - about the size of a credit card and simply slides into a slot on your laptop computer. This type of card is recommended when using a wireless network setup since you can walk around without having to juggle an external adapter.

2) A USB Adapter - simply plugs into a USB port on the outside of your laptop computer