What is the difference between a wireless access point and a distance expansion point?

I'm going to set up a combo wired/wireless network. Currently I have a wired network of 3 pc's in one room. I'm going to buy a new desktop pc and a notebook. I want to use these in other locations in the house. Is a Wireless Access Point the same device as a Wireless Access Point+Cable/DSL Router or is a Wirelss Access Point itself used only for distance expansion of wireless network?

I know I'll need wireless network cards for the new desktop and notebook pc's. Do I need to buy a Wireless Access Point+Cable/DSL Router or just a Wireless Access Point device by itself for wireless communication? OR, will the Wireless Access Point work with the Wired router I currently use?

One more question: Which would you recommend, Wireless Network PC Cards to be installed in the new desktop and notebook pc's or wireless USB adapters for external plug in?

Thanks, Jim

This question was answered on March 1, 2004. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.

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If you already have a wired network running in your house then you are just about ready You say you are getting a laptop and you would like to do that wireless then you have to get a wireless access point Or it should already have a nic card installed so you could plug in the wire and do it wired but you say you want to go wireless with the laptop The desktop PC should come pre installed with a nic card so dont have to worry about that Now as far as getting a wireless card for your laptop, make sure it is compatible with your access point and it could be installed with your operating system

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Posted by Student of Katharine Gibbs School - New York on March 1, 2004

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