Ever consider going wireless? Here are some things to keep in mind. First, you need a Wireless Access Point (WAP). A WAP has antennas for sending and receiving wireless signals and a CAT5 (Ethernet) connection for connecting to the network. Second, you need a Wireless Network Interface Card (NIC) which is manufactured for desktops and laptops. Wireless NIC's also have built-in antennas which send and receive signals.

Don't expect wireless to replace the backbone of a network because wireless connections will be intermittent. Several things contribute to this such as: wall material and thickness, metal blinds, metal filing cabinets and other objects that obstruct or diminish Radio Frequency (RF) signals. Also various network devices sometimes don't "play well together" which can cause devices to periodically "drop out" and lose the signal.

Some people like the versatility of broadband wireless cards that are offered by cell phone companies. It allows access to the company network (if configured), sends and receives e-mail and internet access. In order to use the card, you would need an account with the wireless phone provider (such as Sprint or Verizon) to access their network or any services. Your laptop must have a PC card slot and the software that comes with the card must be installed. Make sure that the card is compatible with the operating system and check the minimum system requirements. Also keep in mind that the card uses phone towers to communicate and therefore you will be charged for the minutes used, unless you purchase an unlimited plan. These plans are just like cell phone plans, you pay on a monthly basis. When you are roaming you will not have a connection to pickup your emails. Also, service may come and go depending on where you are located.

Here are some advantages and disadvantages of wireless:

Advantages
 

• Less expensive than conventional wired networks
• Easy and fast installation
• No cables means no mess
• Highly mobile
• Adding more computers is just a few clicks away

Disadvantages
 

• Slightly slower than wired networks
• Can pose serious security risks if incorrectly installed
• Possibility of slower/dropped connectivity caused by interference with surrounding devices (microwaves, cordless phones, fluorescent lights and high voltage lines).

Something to keep in mind, larger networks may need multiple WAPs and/or bridge devices, which may be more costly. Small networks or single computers can use a wireless router or hub.