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nffc · 13-08-2005, 22:41

He needs an ethernet-compatible modem (and use a Cable Gateway Router) or to get a combined DSL Modem/Router.

Either way should work with his AOL line but the latter probably needs more config- if he doesn't have a modem that does Ethernet and USB then maybe it's better to have the two bits of kit first, IMO, it's easier to set up the modem, then run the network setup than to configure both at the same time, on one piece of kit.

If he's already bought the router and he can't cancel it then he's probably best off buying a router that supports Ethernet rather than anything else- unless he's bought a combined router/modem in which case I personally would RMA.

As for specifics, stick to either Belkin, Linksys or Netgear, and use the same for all the wireless kit- cards, and APs/routers. Personally I can vouch for the Belkin kit but from what other FMs have said the other two seem as good. Plus a few things generally to remember:
- Security- YOU MUST USE THIS! MAC filtering is a decent start but I'd also consider altering the SSID (don't disable the broadcast as that makes associating difficult) and some form of encryption which should be enough to stop most people.
- Speed- I'd still consider the 802.11g running at 54 Mb/s to be the best of the four.

13-08-2005, 22:41	#3
nffc cf.mega poster Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: chavvy Nottingham Age: 41 Services: Freeview, Sky+, 100 Mb/s VM BB, mega i7 PC, iPhone 13, Macbook Air Posts: 7,435	Re: Wireless Router & USB Models? He needs an ethernet-compatible modem (and use a Cable Gateway Router) or to get a combined DSL Modem/Router. Either way should work with his AOL line but the latter probably needs more config- if he doesn't have a modem that does Ethernet and USB then maybe it's better to have the two bits of kit first, IMO, it's easier to set up the modem, then run the network setup than to configure both at the same time, on one piece of kit. If he's already bought the router and he can't cancel it then he's probably best off buying a router that supports Ethernet rather than anything else- unless he's bought a combined router/modem in which case I personally would RMA. As for specifics, stick to either Belkin, Linksys or Netgear, and use the same for all the wireless kit- cards, and APs/routers. Personally I can vouch for the Belkin kit but from what other FMs have said the other two seem as good. Plus a few things generally to remember: - Security- YOU MUST USE THIS! MAC filtering is a decent start but I'd also consider altering the SSID (don't disable the broadcast as that makes associating difficult) and some form of encryption which should be enough to stop most people. - Speed- I'd still consider the 802.11g running at 54 Mb/s to be the best of the four. __________________