How do I connect my computer to a wireless router?

Question

So I have been working on my old computer trying to fix it up but I lost the cord that goes to a phone line so I can connect to the internet but anyways I dont want to use the phone line I want to use my wireless router but I dont know what to do to get it hooked up?

Answer 1

Does your computer have a wireless card or AP (Access Point)?  

If you're not sure, go to the Control Panel, and then open the "System" tab (you may need to have administrator rights on your account to do this).  This will take you to the "System Properties" window.  Then, click on the tab that is named "Hardware,"  then click on the "Device Manager" button.

Now that you are in the Device Manger window, scroll down to Network Adapters, and click on the plus sign by it to show all your network adapters.  You want to see something about a "wireless" adapter.  

If you do not have one, you will need to go to a local electronics store (Best Buy, Fry's, Wal-Mart, etc...) and buy an access point.  USB devices are easiest to install (you can ask a salesperson for a wireless access point, such as a Linksys WUSB54G).

Once the adapter is connected to your computer, run the install disk which should breeze you through to a wireless connection.,  Enjoy!

Answer 2

It really depends on the operating system but try looking at these http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/Search.do... (USB Adapters - works with both desktop and laptop, you didn't specify). Most of these probably wont accept windows 98 so make sure that the device will support the operating system on your 'old' computer.