Linksys EW5PCISK Network starter Kit (PCI)

If you've thought about connecting your computers to share documents, fi les, hard drives, programs, CD-ROMs, multimedia, printers, and more, the Network Starter Kit is just the ticket. Built for PCI 486 and Pentium desktop PCs, the kit comes with two network cards, a 10BaseT hub, network cables, and software--a nd the installation is easy. Just plug the network cards into your computer, con nect the computers with the enclosed cabling and hub, configure the software, an d go. Easy-to-read setup instructions will guide you every step of the way. And if you have questions or need help, don't worry--Linksys's customer support team is just a phone call away, ready to give you expert help for free. As a bonus, the Instant Ethernet Starter Kit now comes with a free copy of Virtual Motion's Internet LanBridge LAN-to-Internet connectivity software with unlimited user lic enses.

See a comparison diagram of the different wireless technologies.

Wireless networks are rapidly becoming more popular and coming down in price. Since they don't require cables, you can use the devices anywhere in an office or home, even out on the patio. There's no need to roll out an Ethernet network cable to each room of a house; you can network anywhere -- without wires. Outside of the home, wireless networking is available in hotspots at coffee shops, businesses, airports -- great when you're on the road and need to get some work done. For convenience, wireless networking is the answer.

What Wireless Standard is Right for Me?
Now that you've decided to create a wireless network, the next step is to figure out which wireless standard to use.

Basically, a standard is a set of specifications for a device. All devices that follow a specific standard share operating characteristics, such as the radio frequency used and maximum data transfer speed.

For wireless networking, there are three standards to choose from at this time:

802.11b

802.11a

802.11g

To learn about the differences between the standards and select the right one for your network, click here for an easy-to-understand chart.

1 Great for File and Internet Sharing!
I borrowed this product from a friend and it worked great, for file sharing. Do not buy if you want speeds of 100mbps. For internet sharing you have to use Windows ICS which is a pain to install, but when done right works great. (ICS is not the hub's fault, if you don't know how to use it buy a router!) I liked it but I had to give it back.