Cheap WiFi?!

[david.dakota]

Having a standard broadband modem, i'm thinking of getting wi-fi installed - that way everything can be wireless.

I know Nintendo are working on a dongle, but i guess thats only going to be able to be used with DS...

What would i need to get a hotspot in the house - and most importantly, whats the cheapest around?

[Andrew]

You'll ideally need a wireless router to create a wireless hotspot. It's a bit late at night so I'll just say have a look at these to get an idea: http://www.ebuyer.com/customer/products/index.html?rb=12070448791&action=c2hvd3N1YmNhdGVnb3J5X3BhZ2U=&subcat_uid=477

[masaki86]

Basically, you need a wireless router. This device plugs into the cable modem that you have and transmitts the link to wireless enabled devices, like laptops, PSP, DS....You can connect it to your PC using a normal ethernet cable though(in most instances).

Do not go for the cheaper options, as for most cases, they suck balls, big balls. You need to go for one made by a company called NetGear or Linksys. They have the best feedback and are the most stable.

For a good modern router, you'd be looking to pay around £40.

[JonSt]

Get a combined router/modem like a netgear. Makes things alot easier and are a doddle to set up.

[masaki86]

Get a combined router/modem like a netgear. Makes things alot easier and are a doddle to set up.

I'm pretty sure that's only possible with an adsl connection iirc.

edit-btw, here is the one I have;

http://www.netgear.co.uk/extra/h_wirelessrouter_wgt624.php

[david.dakota]

So with these its just a case of pluggnig this inbetween the modem and the PC?

[masaki86]

yup. The cable from your modem(that currently goes into your PC) goes into the router. Then an extra ethernet cable goes from the router to the PC. Then you are ready to go.

Of course, with laptops that you want to use, you may need to buy a wireless newtork card and put it into the laptop to make it wireless-able.

Edit; btw, who is your broadban supplier, and where does the modem connect to(does it plug into the telephone socket or cable box?)

[Marshmellow]

i recommend D-link i have a DI-624 and it works awesome

[OptimusPrime]

I know Nintendo are working on a dongle, but i guess thats only going to be able to be used with DS...


The dongle is a normal wi-fi dongle ;) It does not only work with your DS but with any other wi-fi capable device.

That said you could get a modem/router, or a router only. The DS only supports WEP so it's smarter to buy a WEP only router it's cheaper.

Or if you don't mind changing the settings in the router a WPA router.

[khilafah]

My aunt has wannadoo wireless broadband at her house. can i just pop round there with my DS and play online or do i need something else?

[Ev0]

Remember that if you have a USB broadband modem (which does not have ethernet port) you cannot connected it to a router.
You will need a Ethernet modem or a modem/router, which would be better as it saves space.

[khilafah]

so as long as my aunt has a wireless connection it should be simple for me to go online with DS right.

[Darv]

so as long as my aunt has a wireless connection it should be simple for me to go online with DS right.

Yes. If she has it set up securely then you just type in the settings, or if it's not secure you can just search for it. Easy peasy!

[JonSt]

Just heard that the ds wifi connection will only support WEP security, not the much more secure WPA. Thats crap as my hotspot is setup with WPA, which means ill now have to go to the hassle of changing it.

[DCK]

You can get a good Belkin router for just over €50 (~£35). You still need a wireless PCI card if you want your computer to connect to it though. They cost about €25/£15

[Charlie]

You can just get a PCI Wireless card and shove it into your computer and it will work. That's what I do. A lot cheaper than getting a router. Your PC will have to be if you're playing your DS online though.