Hi all, I have a basic network setup running three PCs via a 10/100 hub. I have an ADSL connection using a Netcomm NB1300 modem/router which connects to the hub and allows me to share the connection. Now, I am in the market for a Laptop and want to be able to add it to my network wirelessly for both file/printer sharing and internet access. I'm sure there's a wireless access point or the like that I can add to my existing setup but so far two computer shops have told me I need to replace the Netcomm with a wireless router. Is this really the case ? I'd also like to add a media streamer like the D-Link Media Lounge. Thanks in advance, Hans

Re: adding wireless connectivity to an existing network

No you don't NEED to replace the NB1300. You could add a wireless access point like the Netcomm NP5400. But you'd find that it would cost almost as much as simply replacing the NB1300 with a modem-router that includes wireless capability.

Re: adding wireless connectivity to an existing network

Thanks Gordon - I was sure I could do it, just started to think maybe I was wrong when two supposed experts told me different :) I'll have a look at the Netcomm AP and compare pricing with a wireless router. Thanks again for your help.

Re: adding wireless connectivity to an existing network

I have just done exactly what you want to do on a home network very similar to yours. You could replace the NB1300 with a wireless modem-router but there is no need.

You do need a 'wireless access point'. I purchased a Netgear WG602 v3 54 Mbps wireless access point (for much less than a modem) and plugged it into the back of my Netcomm NB1300 +4. Now our two laptops network wirelessly with desktops, each other, printers, internet etc.

One tip on instal, ignore instructions to reconfigure IP addresses of a computer and plug directly to WAP. Just plug into NB1300 which will assign an IP address in your newtwork range. You can find the WAP using default access name.