Wi-Fi v Bluetooth

[Brownlow]

I got a Wi-Fi router, recently, but now need a receiver for my laptop. I've seen some fairly cheap Bluetooth USB dongles, but I don't know if they will be compatible with the router. Can anyone explain the difference, if there is one, between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

[Ethel]

Good explanation here:

http://www.davespda.com/features/wireless.htm

How old is your laptop? Are you sure it is not already wifi enabled?

[Brownlow]

Ta, Ethel,
Thanks for the info.
My laptop isn't very old, but doesn't have a Wi-Fi connection.
The router instructions say that it does not connect a USB - ADSL modem, but uses LAN Ethernet modem connection. So, it look as though I'll have to connect via a Wi-Fi input.

[dodgyshirt]

Are you sure you have bought a modem/router and not just a router as it seems to be saying that it will only route the signal picked up via an ethernet connection and not that supplied via a USB modem.
What model have you bought band how are you connecting it.

[Brownlow]

The router plugs into my cable modem. It isn't connected to anything, at the moment, because I haven't got a receiver. It only has an Ethernet connection, which is why I asked if it would communicate with a Bluetooth receiver.

[dodgyshirt]

No,Bluetooth is a totally different technology. You will need a wireless access point such as:-

http://www.ebuyer.com/product/107691

[Brownlow]

Thanks, dodgyshirt.
Ethel made that clear, and as I said, in my reply, it looks as though I'll have to connect via a Wi-Fi input.

[dodgyshirt]

You seem to be going round in circles here, the device I gave a link to is what you need to plug into your laptop to receive the signal from your router.

[Brownlow]

Hi Dodgyshirt, thank you for your help. Though, I'm not sure why you've got involved in this. It was done and dusted with Ethel's reply. I knew where to get a receiver, before I asked for help. I simply didn't know if Bluetooth was compatible. That's all. I hope that explains the situation. Thanks again.