dashingblade - 18/12/05 at 18:06
I'm an absolute beginner in this field and I need a bit of advice. I have
recently discovered that I live within 50-60 metres of a wifi hotspot (part
of the UK's Cloud network www.cloud.net) and would very much like to
connect to it. I can see the building where the hotspot is located from
the first floor room where my desktop computer is situated. What equipment
would I need to buy to hook up to this? What kind of speeds would I be
able to obtain? Thanks in advance.
stitch1 - 18/12/05 at 18:46
i dont know much about that hotspot, not being from there and all, but if
all you want to do is connect a single pc to a wireless hotspot you are in
then all you need to buy is a Wi-Fi card. these come in 2 types for pcs.
1-usb you just plug it in, install the software from the cd and connect to
the hotspot (provided you have signed up to the hotspot provider - unless
the network is unencrypted!!  )
2 - the second type is a pci card you have to install in the machine by
opening it up and slotting the card in place. (pretty easy)
i recommend USB provided you have a fast USB port (you will unless the pc
is relatively old), otherwise get a pci card. you'll want one with a good
range... either look for reviewed hardware on the net or explain to the
store exactly what you need it for and they will be happy to help you
out.
once the card is in the pc and the software is installed then you can scan
for networks, when you find the one you are looking for connect using
details provided by the operator of that hotspot.... you might be lucky and
find a network with no encryption...free internet access!! in any case the
speed depends on the quality, distance interference etc between you and the
hotspot signal... another factor is the speed actually provided but you
should be looking at 128Kbs at least.
hope this was a help even though im not too familiar with the uk setup,
wifi is generally the same everywhere anyway! 
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echoes in eternity
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