Wireless modem query

[jambo64]

Hi,
Was wondering if anyone could help.
At present my BT broaadband is connected to a desktop pc via a 5m phone extention lead. We decided it was time to go wireless as we are also getting a laptop and went to our local PC World. We explained that we wanted to connect both the desktop and the laptop to the internet. They have given us a Belkin enhanced wireless modem router starter kit (BT connection) N150. When we opened the box the instructions said to place this new modem-router next to our existing moden (which is wired) then connect the cables. From what we understand this will leave us with a wired modem running the desktop and the laptop running wireless. Is this correct or are we just being daft (what we know about pc's can be written on a postage stamp and a very small one at that!) Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[VHG]

Most desktop PCs are not wireless enabled so will normally be connected to a modem/router via a wire.

Laptops normally ARE wireless enabled so can be used with wi fi out the box.

If you want to make your desktop wireless then you need to buy a wi fi device for the desktop. This will normally plug into the USB port and then "connect" to the router (you can buy wi fi cards that go inside the dekstop case but that does require taking the PC case apart).

You will need to buy something like this (PC World etc will have them)

http://www.blueunplugged.com/c.aspx?c=41106

[tamborine]

If your desktop remains static, connected to BT modem and buy a wifi lappy the lappy will find your BT modem.

You dont need the Belkin unless it's a dongle modem, that you want to use 'off site'.

[ChuckFickens]

Neither of the above seem to have actually answered the question (Tambos is particularly misleading!)

The belkin modem router replaces your existing modem, you then connect your desktop using a ethernet cable to the new modem router (there was probably a yellow one supplied with it) so you are correct in saying the desktop will then be connected using a wire, your laptop will then connect wirelessly.

You will have to follow the instructions with the router to setup the correct user name and password for your internet account in the admin pages of the router, this needs to be done using a computer that is connected to the router using a cable.

There is no need to buy a wireless adaptor for your desktop, if it's within a few meters of the router it's far better to connect using a wire.

[jambo64]

Thanks for your help.............I may be back on asking for more advice :-)