Can I set up a wireless network without a PC/Mac?

Question

Currently, at my house we have two PC's with USB wifi adapters, a Macbook with a built-in Wifi card, a Playstation 3, an Xbox 360, and Nintendo Wii all vying for the wireless signal. I have the Xbox and PS3 connected directly to my Linksys router but the computers must all rely on the wireless because the router is so far away. Since I didn't install the router on a computer, the signal has no security. If I were to hook it up to one of the computers, configure it, and then move it back to the gaming consoles, would it work? In other words, I want to have a wireless set up without the need to have it constantly connected to a computer. Any help or instruction would be greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

Yes, this would work. Just connect the router with a wire to one of the computers. You should be able to use the web interface(go to a browser and type in: http://192.168.1.1) if you want more advanced settings, or just use the CD that came with the router. Be sure to use WPA or WPA2 security(do NOT use WEP). Also, write the key(e.g, password) down somewhere so you dont forget it. (Although it should be pretty easy to go through the process again if you do forget it.)

If you want extra security(these are probably only available on the Web Interface):

Turn off SSID broadcast - this will make your network appear to be invisible - it wont show up on a list, but as long as you know the name, you can connect. Also, change the name to something unique.

Turn on MAC Address Filtering. - This is a little complicated, but should be pretty easy to set up. It will only allow the devices in to the network as long as they are "on the list". Think of it as a club bouncer. All you have to do is add the MAC(every networked device has a unique code) Address of your computers and game consoles onto the list. The router also might allow you to select those connected currently to the list - this is the easiest way.

P.S. You can use the web interface from wired or wireless devices and it has more control than the CD. But, if setting up or changing wireless network settings, be sure to be connected on a wired connection so you dont lose the signal.