If you’re setting up a home network for the first time, it’s natural to feel confused by all the different
networking components and
standards available. If you’re the non-technical type, just hearing the word “networking” is probably enough to make your eyes glaze over.
Luckily, setting up a wireless home network is remarkably simple. There’s no reason to hire the neighbor’s high school-age kid and have him or her set it up for you. This one you can tackle yourself; we promise.
Before you create your network, there are really only two things you need to know: the various wireless transmission rate standards and the various components that can make up a network. After that, you’ll be prepared to march into your local electronics store and pick out the components that are right for you.
Networking StandardsWhen you go shopping for
networking components, you’ll notice that many companies just can’t wait for a new standard to be in place; they want to start selling it even before it’s official. There are currently several “pre-n” products on the market, which promise the speed of
802.11n in advance of the standard’s actually arrival. You take a risk by buying these early-adopter products, and we don’t recommend it. There could be changes with the final version of
802.11n that prevent it from working with “pre-n” products. The standard isn’t final yet, so there will be changes. To protect yourself, simply wait until
802.11n is finally adopted. (
802.11n is scheduled to be published in September 2008.)
Networking ComponentsIf your wireless signal strength is weak or doesn’t reach all the way through your house, you’ll want to add another
component to your system: a signal extender. These amplify a weak signal and greatly increase the range of a home network. If you want to work on your patio or anywhere on your property, a signal extender is likely the way to go.
Troy Dreier is a freelance tech writer based in the New York City area. 
