[karenls70]

Hello,

Can someone please let me know what items I will need to setup a home network using my Verizon Wireless Aircard? I have a desktop and laptop. Laptop has wireless card built-in, desktop uses a linksys usb network card (don't have the exact name in front of me, but it was bought about a year ago). Will I need a wireless router? Any help is appreciated. Thanks.
:confused:

[Perito]

You'll need a laptop with a Cardbus connector. I guess you can find adapters for desktops also. Basically, you have to plug the Aircard in. You'll undoubtedly need Verizon software loaded. Other than that, you shouldn't need anything. Your Linksys card won't be used (this will be a separate network connection). The Laptop's built-in wireless will also not be used for the same reason. You won't need a wireless router unless you want both the laptop and the desktop talking through the same modem (the Wireless Aircard 595). If you want to do that, there's a lot more involved.

Verizon also has a USB card that will do the same thing except you don't have to have the Cardbus connector.

If you want both devices to talk through the Aircard, you'll need to use Internet Connection Sharing.

How to configure Internet Connection Sharing in Windows XP

You will need a router (either wireless or not). You'll also need a crossover Ethernet cable. The router will need to be configured such that its DHCP server is turned OFF (the computer with the card will be the DHCP server) and the computer with the card has to be connected to the router using the crossover cable.

I've done this before, but it's not always an easy setup.

[chuckhole]

Is the Verizon Aircard your only Internet connection? Do you have unlimited Internet access as part of your wireless plan? If you do not, this can get expensive.

Typically, a DSL, Cable or Satellite Internet connection is less expensive than an unlimited Internet access account via wireless. Check into this first before you make changes.