Networking

[bigup]

Hi guys....

I need some help so i thought i would ask the experts again after last times success :)

I have a lap top (dell inspiron 4000) and a Packard bell desktop....

I want to make a wireless network so that both can be connected to the internet at the same time.

My problem is that i dont have a clue where to start and what equipment i need or what gadgets and cards i need to buy etc. How do i find out what products my lap top or desk top is missing in order to create a network? i.e. do i need to buy cards to slot in or do they already have these as standard?

Some folks told me that i need to buy a whole load of equipment and netgear packs and cards, whereas others have said i only need the basic netgear startup kit and thats it.....so im confused!!!

Any advice or info much appreciated!

[RetiredGeek]

dial up?
broadband?
operating systems?

[PrntRhd]

bigup,
I saw this hidden in Notebooks and moved it to Local Networking as much more appropriate.

You have a Ethernet port in the Dell laptop, you need a NIC (Network Interface Card) for the desktop.
After that it is easiest to get a Router and plug into the PCs using Cat5 Ethernet cables.

[bassman]

If you desire to keep the laptop portable in your house a wireless network is real sweet. You will need a wireless access point and a wireless pcmcia card for the laptop. I personaly use Linksys products but believe they are all about equal.
I assume your internet connection is close enough to your desktop that the WAP can be set up near it so no need to go wireless with it (as mentioned by PrntRhd).

Let us know how it's going ;)