Ok, this isn't strictly a Mom question, but you all always have such great advice!
We have a desktop computer, no laptops. We just got an XBox 360 and are able to watch Netflix and some ESPN from the XBox. We bought the Live membership, so that's not an issue. The XBox will hook up to our wired internet, but it's a total pain in the behind to drag the cord from one room to the next. My husband thinks we need a wireless router (the XBox has WiFi built in). I don't know how that works with a desktop. Can we use wireless with our desktop? Or do we have to do something else special? I know I can call the internet company, but their customer service department is often less than helpful.
Thanks for any help!
Go to radio shack and they would totally explain to you how it works. I dont have one but lots of my "peeps" do, and it does free up everything and yes, it does work with the desktop pc.
Absolutely. The router will just go between your connection and the desktop. Right now the internet line hooks directly into your computer. With a router the internet connection goes into the router and then another line goes from the router to the desktop.
The only thing you need to consider in buying a router is the distance from the router to the xbox. The further away the stronger the router needs to be. We recently moved into a bigger house (2000 sq ft) and had to buy a new stronger router so that the wireless connected to the desktop in the bedroom would allow me to get a signal on the laptop in the dining room.
It really is way easier than it sounds!
i have a wireless router for my desktop and the laptop in my room and for the playstation and works good i conect my desktop computer with the usb that comes with the router .
We each have laptops and use them all over the house. We also have a desktop and it is set up on wireless as well. Our printer is wireless.... I love just hitting the print button and picking up my printing at my convenience and not having to hook up wires all the time.
We also have a Wii system and use the wireless on that.
Your cable company could probably help you. We wouldn't know what to do without our wireless!!
You can run your desktop off of the router or you can still keep it plugged in and just run your Xbox off of the wireless. How far from the router you will have the Xbox determines the "strength" of the router you will need. I recommend Belkin for a brand. I have their lowest grade router and I am able to use my laptop in the back bedroom as long as the door is open. That can give you a little idea on where to start. I have also found their customer service satisfactory and their equipment easy to install. Hope that helps. :)
We use a wireless router and love it! They will solve your XBox issue and if your desktop is wireless compatible (it should be if you bought it within the past 5 years or so) then it will work as well.
Some advice, proximity is important when setting up your wireless router. Things like walls and microwaves tend to get in the way of the signal. If your wireless router is on the other side of your house from the Xbox you may have an issue. If that is the case you may also need a repeater or extender product to get the wireless signal stronger throughout the house. I use Apple products and have their wireless router and airport extreme. They have solved all our issues as we have about 4 computers and other electronic devices that require a wireless signal.
Another tip, even if you do use a wireless router, if your computer is near the router I would still plug it in as you may get a slower speed with the wireless option and if you are close enough with your desktop to plug it in then I would recommend keeping it plugged in. The wireless router has multiple openings to keep your desktop wired.
Good Luck!
VillageMom
www.ittakesavillagedallas.com
Yes you can use the wireless with your desktop. If the desktop does not have built in wireless you just run the cord to the router. Most wireless routers have 4 ports to connect wired computer or periferals.
Hi Shaun...I've been a systems administrator for about 10 years now and have setup my wireless network at home (as well as work). We also have an XBox which is setup wirelessly. First, you need a wireless router. Is there any way you could have your desktop computer sit right next to the wireless router? There are usually 4 ports in the back of the wireless router that will allow for you to plug in the ethernet cable. That will be your best bet. Otherwise you will need to purchase a wireless network card or bridge for your desktop computer. Feel free to email me if you have any questions.
