Wireless networking is one of the fastest-growing forms of networking in the world. Until very recently, it has been both expensive difficult to use. Horror stories abound of young businesses paying thousands of dollars, only to find that the range on their equipment is not enough for their office. This article addresses the three most common questions of first time wireless networking users: what should I buy, what do I need, and how do I get everything working.

Wireless networking is constantly improving, changing, though the basic principle is the same. Instead of using standard cables to transmit information from one point to another (or many), it uses radio signals. The closest comparison that can be made is 2.4GHz cordless phones. In fact, the technology used is almost identical, and the benefits of this almost go without saying. With wireless networking a computer or laptop can be moved anywhere within the range of the network without an interruption of network service. This means that if you have a laptop, you can sit in your favorite recliner and still surf the Internet or access your network without dragging a cord across the room.