wifi

[wudy]

I have a wired broadband connection to my desktop, I am thinking of buying a laptop. Is there a way of connecting them together and via wifi and still have a single internet connection or do I have to buy a router?

Thanks

[ChuckFickens]

yes

one of these will do

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Netgear-DG834G-54Mbps- Wireless-Firewall/dp/B0000TZ8Z8/ref=sr_1_1?ie= UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1225297384&sr=8-1

keep your desktop connected by wire from the router and only use wireless on the laptop

[LeMarchand]

Isn't that a router, Chuck?

There is a way of connecting the 2 and "sharing" the connection but (unless your PC already has a wireless card in it) it will probably be as cheap - and certainly a lot easier/more reliable (built-in wireless or not) - to buy a router. Make sure you get the right type for your BB connection.

[ChuckFickens]

I was answering wudys last 7 words, which I agree, having re read the question was slightly confusing... what I should have said was

yes you do have to buy a router.

though as LeMarchand says there is another way to do it, but it's will work out about the same cost and is considerably less practicable as you would need to have your desktop turned on when ever you wanted to use your laptop.

Also as correctly pointed out the link I posted is for a router that's used with broadband via a telephone line, if you have a cable connection with virgin then that would not be suitable.