A couple questions on networking 2 computers for the internet: Please help

[bencat]

I asked a couple of days ago about how to wire 2 computers without going wireless. I figured it would be cheaper. I'm starting to rethink my options. What I am wanting to do is network my computer with my brothers (he lives in the room next to mine). I have an new Dell 310 desktop running windows XP and have DSL internet with the speedstream 5100 modem. My brother has an older Gateway 2000 desktop running Windows 98. His computer does not have internet. We are wanting to network so that he has internet on his too. So here are my questions.

1. Is a wireless router as secure as a wire running from mine to his and just doing that way? I use online banking, so I want to make sure it's secure.
2. If so, it seems I would be looking at the same price to go wireless, so what do I need? I am assuming a wireless router and a card for my brothers computer. Is this correct? What brand and models are the best and most secure?
3. What exact model would I need to buy of router and networking card?

For others who helped on my previous question, thanks! Any help is greatly appreciated :) :) .

[PrntRhd]

The answer to #1 is usually no, but it depends on how much risk you have in your location, ie how close are your neighbors or parking lots where someone could bring a laptop PC to connect to your access point? If you go wireless I would advise WPA encryption be turned on, your access point renamed and a strong password be used for the web interface.

A wireless router may be as cheap as wired after rebates, the wireless adapter needed for the brother's PC will certainly be more than a typical wired NIC card. Cost will be offset a little by not needing 2 patch cables, assuming you keep your PC wired and your brother's wireless. The brother's PC will likely get a slightly slower connection but he won't know the difference if he had no access at all before. Reliability could suffer if you have 900MHz cordless phones in the house or microwave ovens near the wireless router.

[bencat]

Thanks for the help and the really informative answers. I think I'll go with the wired networking because it definatly sounds more secure.

[PrntRhd]

Either way is OK if you take the precautions. Let us know in the event you need advice when you get the stuff.

[Whyzman]

I would agree that [edit] WIRED :) is more secure, however, the chances of neighbors or a drive by being able to crack, or wanting to crack your WPA, a probably very remote. More importantly, are your safeguards while on the Internet. I would say that the wireless talk between your two computers pales by comparison to how your protected on the Internet itself...

If it is convenient to use cables, NIC cards are pretty inexpensive. Newegg has some for around $16.99 (linksys). I use wireless because I live in a multi-level home with plaster walls...not convenient at all to running wires. For wireless you would need a router that you could connect your computer to by LAN cord and probably a USB wireless for your brother.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16833124010

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16833124126

[PrntRhd]

I would agree that wireless is more secure,
Actually less secure, but WPA is usually secure enough for most users.

[Whyzman]

Sorry PrntRhd...that was a typo! I, of course, meant to say WIRED! :)