I saw some wireless networking cards in pc world today and I was thinking about how they would be ideal for me (my PC's are a fair distance apart) and how they worked. The first thing is, do you just put one card in one PC, one in another and then they can network (like using crossover cable), or is there a hub involved? Also, what sort of distance are we talking for these to work? How close would the networking PCs have to be? Finally, I saw 11Mb and 54Mb versions, is 11Mb worth it when 54Mb is only £10 or so more? (ie - how fast/slow would this be?) You can probably tell by now that I don't know much about wireless networking so thanks for any help! Alex

If you just plan on sharing files, you can have 2 wireless network cards communicate with each other. If you plan on using both on line, you can still do it that way using ICS too. However the main computer would need to be on to use the secondary computer for on line. If you have high speed internet, it would be recommended to get a router as well (then either computer can access internet without the other). If you have a dial-up connection, the modem/ routers tend to be a little pricey and I would suggest the ICS option (unless money is not an option). As far as 11 and 54 MB speeds, it's been a while since I've compared them, so I will not answer that on the grounds I might show ignorance from newer changes. You can google 11MBps vs 54Mbps wireless and you should get a lot of answers. Not to mention someone else on this forum will be able to help as well. When all else fails beat the $%!* out of it!!!

Also, you mention your PCs are a fair distance apart. It tends not to be distance that's a problem, but any walls in between have a drastic attenuation effect - in my house the laptop's limited to about 30feet due to having 3 standard walls to go through. The usual stated 100m is only 'possible' with no obstructions. "I know that I'm mad - I've always been mad..."

Thanks for elaborating johnr, one thing I always forget to add When all else fails beat the $%!* out of it!!!

Thanks for the information, it's very helpful. It's definitely something I'll look at and consider. Cheers! Alex