Running Windows XP on a Wireless Network
If you are running Windows XP and having issues with your wireless network connection, check to see what service pack you are running. Most problems can be fixed by upgrading to service pack 2. Service pack 2 addressed an issue with it’s Wireless Zero Configuration, which affects your wireless network connection ability.

Peer to Peer Wireless Network
A peer to peer network is a network where computers talk directly to one another for the purpose of sharing files and resources. This form of network is also known as an ad hoc network. This can be set up on a wireless network without the use of an access point or router. All the computers and devices will need to have a wireless internet card and be configured to run on an ad hoc basis. You will not be able to share an internet connection on a peer to peer network.

Wireless Network Equipment
Setting up a wireless network is simple, and the equipment you will need depend on the kind of wireless network you decide to set up. For a peer to peer network, you will simply need wireless network cards for all the computers. If you are also sharing a network connection, you will need a wireless router and maybe a wireless hub, depending on the amount of devices on the network. You will also need an access point, which can be a dedicated piece of hardware, or a computer with specific software.

Benefits to a Wireless Network
There are several benefits to a wireless network, the main focus being portability. It is common for notebook computer users to use a wireless network card, which will allow them to access the internet, other computers on the network, devices, etc from anywhere within the range of the wireless network. Wireless network management can be simpler then a wired network, because adding new systems does not require wiring of an office or home, plus there are no unsightly cables to troubleshoot.

Trouble Shooting Wireless Network Problems
If your wireless network is acting sluggish or not working properly, check to make sure that all batteries are charged and working properly in your wireless devices. This includes laptop computers as well. Next, check to make sure you are within range of the access points and/or wireless router and that it is not covered with unnecessary objects. Check to make sure that all configurations are set properly and that there are no objects, such as cordless phones or microwaves in the area that can interfere with the signal.

Wireless Antenna
A wireless antenna is used to boost the increase the range of a wireless network. However, be sure to check the hardware of the wireless router or access point that you have, because not all are compatible with a wireless antenna. An alternative to boost the range is to add additional access points to the network.

Wireless Network without a Laptop
Even if you do currently own a laptop, there are benefits to considering a wireless network in your home or office. It is easy to expand and add additional computers and devices without having to special wire cables. There are no unsightly cables to look at or trip over. If you ever do purchase a laptop, it will be easy to add into the network. There are no holes to drill, no cables to string, and a wireless network can potentially be less expensive to start up and maintain then a wired one.

Switching to Wireless Network
There are several benefits to running a wireless network. You do not have the costs of running and maintaining cables and you do not need to worry about cables when designing the layout of an office area. Wireless network equipment is comparable in cost to wired equipment. Changing from a wired to a wireless network will give your employees greater freedom and can increase productivity. Clients can stop by the office and access the network, making transfer of files and data easier. Finally, wireless network management can be less complex and costly then that of a wired network.

Trouble with Access Point on Wireless Network
If you are sure that you have configured the wireless access point/wireless router exactly as stated per manufactures instructions, there is a chance the hardware is defective. While this does not happen often, make sure you save all receipts and contact customer service and tech support of the manufacture to attempt to fix the problem.

Wireless Network: Access Point Definition
An access point is a station that broadcasts wireless internet to other computers in the wireless network. An access point can be a router, computer, or special access point equipment. It can also be called a base station or hot spot

Wireless Network: Hot Spot
A hot spot is essentially the same as an access point, but is usually found in restaurants, stores, etc, where people with Wi-Fi laptops can access the internet. Sometimes this service is free, but sometimes it is a paid service.

Wireless Network Kits
There are several wireless network kits available for setting up computers on a wireless network. These kits include a wireless router and network card.