Without
an access point, you could only connect two computers wirelessly in
???ad hoc??? mode (more on that later, too).
Finally, a router is a device that connects two networks, and routes traffic
between them. For example, a router can connect a peer-to-peer
workgroup to the Internet, allowing you to share a single Internet connection
with all the computers in your office (see ???Share an Internet
Connection,??? later in this chapter, for details). Most routers also double
as switches, just as wireless routers double as wireless access points.
Plus, any modern router (wireless or otherwise) will have a built-in firewall
(typically superior to a software firewall that runs on your computer),
so you can basically get everything you need in one inexpensive
package.
The good news is that Vista comes with everything you need to take advantage
of all of these standards, and use them to access the Internet or share
files and devices with other PCs on your network. The bad news is that it??™s
almost never as easy to get it working properly as the industry would lead
you to believe.
To Wire or Not to Wire
Wiring is a pain, but it works. Wireless is convenient, but flaky. Luckily,
you don??™t have to just stick with one system, nor have it all planned out
ahead of time.
For best results, wire your nonmobile desktop system to your router/switch/
hub when it??™s nearby. Cables aren??™t affected by poor reception, security
codes, or interference, and they provide full speed all the time.
Pages:
471
472
473
474
475
476
477
478
479
480
481
482
483
484
485
486
487
488
489
490
491
492
493
494
495