Image via Wikipedia
It is essential today to have a computer system at home. You can manage your finances and write documents, not to mention access the Internet. For some however, even this is not enough. With the right equipment, you can set up your own wireless network at home. This way, you can share files among multiple computers, print from printers in other rooms, surf the Web from anywhere in the house, and if you really want to get serious, control lighting, televisions, and appliances.
The first thing you’ll need is a wireless router, which basically broadcasts signals from the Internet wirelessly. Equally important is a wireless network adapter that connects the computer to the router via USB or PC card. Follow the instructions included with the equipment carefully and note how the ports on each device are labeled.
Connecting the equipment can be tricky, but following the details on the ports and cables should guide you along. Next is the configuration, which is done through the Internet browser. For all the pieces of equipment listed, each will have an IP address, username, and password. You might have to configure these for the wireless encryption or Wi-Fi protected access, to protect your network, and for your own administrative access. Make sure you save your settings to the browser when you are done.
If your computer doesn’t already have wireless capability built in, then you have to plug in any necessary adapter. Install any software required and follow the prompts for setting up the system. Windows, for example, will have a set of specific instructions that you’ll have to follow to get the network to work properly.
You’ll have to configure each device in the network, such as any desktops, laptops, or other machines that comprise the home network. Once this process is complete, you will be able to go online from any location within the signal range.