Desktop Computer Packages

How Do I Connect My New Desktop Computer To The Internet?

My main desktop computer has Verizon internet. I want to set up a wireless internet area in my house. I have a router that I bought at a garage sale, I'm very sure that it works, but I may need more cables for it. It is a Westell Versalink Model 327W. I tried replacing my verizon modem with the router, but the internet light on the router won't come on and nothing on my computer will connect to the internet. I wonder if I can change some settings to fix this problem? I also want to know exactly what I need to buy for my new computer to pick up the wireless signals (I don't have the hardware to do this on the computer yet, is there something that I can plug into a USB port or something?) And I also want to know how to name my wireless zone and set a password for it. I can buy the supplies that I need to make this happen, and I may consider a wired connection if that would be better since the computers aren't far from each other. I've heard that the router I bought has a lot of problems, so if anyone can tell me another model I can buy at a decent price I will do that. Ask if you need any more details. Both computers are running Windows XP, but my new computer is stuck with service pack 1 (I think that's what it's called)

Public Comments

1. This looks to be another Verizon modem but there are a lot of Model 327W shown at www.westell.com/technical-support/technical-support.html This one could be obsolete. What you need is a wifi router AND a wifi adapter for the computer. You will find these at any computer store. The directions are usually very clear in the user guide and you will see directions on wiring and setting up the router name and password. The wire from your current modem goes into the WAN port of the new router. Then another wire runs from one of the router LAN ports to your computer. Then you set the router up and it can be used either wired or wireless (wifi). The computer needs a wifi adapter. You can get a PCI card to install inside the computer or a USB adapter, either way works. Sometimes you can find a kit with the router and adapter together in the same box.
2. Simple fix. In order to use the wireless router you will need the software for it, usually on CD. This CD is crucial in order to set up all the settings for your router. Some websites may have driver downloads, but it it not so common. When you first start, you will unplug all connections from your desktop and modem, including the power supply. Then you will keep the telephone line in the modem as well as your Ethernet cable, but you will put the other end into the router, usually names WAN or Internet(you will need two Ethernet cables). The other Ethernet cable will go into one of the additional Ethernet ports in the router and plug directly into the computer's Ethernet port. You will then place the CD into the computer and run through all of the steps until it prompts you to turn on the modem and router.