I would recommend trading in your present router for one with wireless
capability. Most, if not all, home routers have a switch for your wire
connections and antenna's for wireless. I think you can get one for $50 or
less. Easier and less expensive than getting an AP.

Make sure you set up security with at least WPA that both the router and new
laptop should support.

"powerwalk" wrote in message
news:AACE4CB1-B468-4BCF-8FE2-B9F9346F64A2@microsoft.com...
> Really need some input on this one.
>
> I have a Dlink cable modem and a Dlink 4 port wired router which are
> connected to two desktop computers by a 100 foot ethernet cable running
> thru
> the attic and down to each computer. I also set up a file/printer sharing
> network between them.
>
> I just purchased a laptop and want to connect it to my network by using
> its
> wireless features but I want to keep the wired network for the desktops. I've
> read a lot regarding access points, etc. but the more I read, the more I
> get
> confused. Also, want to do this in the least expensive way possible.
>
> Thanks for any help.

"powerwalk" wrote in message
news:AACE4CB1-B468-4BCF-8FE2-B9F9346F64A2@microsoft.com...
> Really need some input on this one.
>
> I have a Dlink cable modem and a Dlink 4 port wired router which are
> connected to two desktop computers by a 100 foot ethernet cable running
> thru
> the attic and down to each computer. I also set up a file/printer sharing
> network between them.
>
> I just purchased a laptop and want to connect it to my network by using
> its
> wireless features but I want to keep the wired network for the desktops.
> I've
> read a lot regarding access points, etc. but the more I read, the more I
> get
> confused. Also, want to do this in the least expensive way possible.
>

By all means, check out the powerline network adapters, like this:
http://www.dlink.com/products/?pid=533

It is not exactly wireless techology but:
- confusion free and still secure
- no-brainer easy to setup and use
- costs only slightly more than cheap wi-fi adapters.

Regards,
--PA

Hi
Assuming that your are in North America. Wire or Wireless Routers cost the
same, and both cost much less than an Access Point.
So get a new Wireless Router and either replace the current Router, or leave
the network as is, and use the Wireless Router as an Access Point.
Using a Wireless Router as a switch with an Access Point -
http://www.ezlan.net/router_AP.html
Jack (MS, MVP-Networking)

"powerwalk" wrote in message
news:AACE4CB1-B468-4BCF-8FE2-B9F9346F64A2@microsoft.com...
> Really need some input on this one.
>
> I have a Dlink cable modem and a Dlink 4 port wired router which are
> connected to two desktop computers by a 100 foot ethernet cable running
> thru
> the attic and down to each computer. I also set up a file/printer sharing
> network between them.
>
> I just purchased a laptop and want to connect it to my network by using
> its
> wireless features but I want to keep the wired network for the desktops. I’ve
> read a lot regarding access points, etc. but the more I read, the more I
> get
> confused. Also, want to do this in the least expensive way possible.
>
> Thanks for any help.

Thanks to all who took the time to share their networking knowledge with me.
Your input is sincerely appreciated.