I am moving up from dial-up to wireless internet access later this month.

What brand/model network cards do users recommend?

Is 802.11g better?

Is the firewall built into Windows XP good enough? If not, how about the free version of ZoneAlarm?

Thanks.
Ed

Huh?

In terms of "newer" and "better" 802.11g is better than 802.11b. 802.11n is the latest and what I would go with. The firewall is probably fine.

As you know, dial up works by connecting you to an ISP (internet service provider) through a phone line. Wireless cards connect you to a network via wireless, but you still need an ISP. You can go to places that offer "WiFi access" or you can buy a router but you will need to pay for an internet connection. You should already know all that, but the way your question reads, it sounds like you might not.

-Ryan Adams
http://ryanadams.blogsite.org

I wouldn't touch 802.11n at the moment. Is it is still being developed and as yet been ratified as a standard.

When it is ratified the is a chance that any 802.11n euipment you have may not work with all other 802.11n equipment.

If you are prepared to run the risk of having redundant equipment on your hands at some time in the future then fine, go with 802.11n. Otherwise stick with 802.11g.

Stuart

Get the router with 802.11g, should be enough to support your needs and the price is reasonable. I like Linksys and Dlink products.

I agree with StuartS, I won't touch on 802.11 pre-n product untill the standard is finalized.. Further more the price of 802.11 pre-n product is pretty expensive.

Hope helps..