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How do I Choose the Best Home Network Setup?

Harriette Halepis
Harriette Halepis

Creating a home network setup can be complicated, but with a few straightforward steps a home network can be completed in no time. A home network setup involves a bit of research, some quick reading, and being adequately prepared. Thus, the first step towards setting up your network is to find out if you have all the necessary equipment.

To begin a home network setup, you'll first have to connect to the Internet from your main computer. Then, you will have to decide whether you need a wired network or a wireless network. If you only have one stationary computer, then you don't need a wireless network. If you have a number of portable electronic devices including a portable computer, video game console, or other device, you will need to arrange a wireless network configuration.

A wireless network adapter.
A wireless network adapter.

Wired networks only consist of an Internet connection, an Ethernet cable, and one computer. To set up this kind of connection, simply attach one end of the Ethernet cable to your modem while attaching the other end to your computer. A wireless connection is a bit trickier, though this type of connection can be simplified with a few steps.

To set up a wireless connection, you will first have to purchase a router. You'll note that there are a variety of routers on the market with different bandwidth amounts. Generally, you'll want to choose a router with high bandwidth capabilities. This way, you can use your portable devices even when you are far away from your main computer.

A WPA key can be used to secure a wireless home network.
A WPA key can be used to secure a wireless home network.

After purchasing a router, follow the manufacturer's directions for configuring your new router. Since all routers are different, be sure to follow the directions carefully. If you aren't sure about how to set up a part of your router, simply contact a customer representative. These professionals will be able to walk you through any part of the router configuring process that you cannot figure out on your own. As soon as you have configured your router, you can then follow the instructions to setting up your wireless devices.

A wired router can be used to set up a home network, and it may be more secure than a wireless router.
A wired router can be used to set up a home network, and it may be more secure than a wireless router.

If you happen to have an older portable computer, then you may need to purchase a wireless network adapter. An adapter will help your older computer connect to your wireless network without any issues. If you have a newer wireless computer, then you probably already have a wireless adapter built into the computer. A home network setup is as simple as following the instructions listed above. Once you have the equipment necessary for a home network setup, the rest is merely a matter of going through the necessary steps.

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    • A wireless network adapter.
      A wireless network adapter.
    • A WPA key can be used to secure a wireless home network.
      By: lexan
      A WPA key can be used to secure a wireless home network.
    • A wired router can be used to set up a home network, and it may be more secure than a wireless router.
      By: Andrey Khritin
      A wired router can be used to set up a home network, and it may be more secure than a wireless router.
    • Ethernet cables are required for wired networks.
      By: angellodeco
      Ethernet cables are required for wired networks.