Computer technology has enabled us to take advantage of accessing the internet through a wireless connection, the 802.11 wireless card enables your computer or laptop to access the internet from anywhere in your office or home.

An 802.11 wireless card enables your computer or laptop to access the modem no matter where in the home or office it is situated, that this great advantage of wireless technology. You are able to sit out on the patio in the sun and still access the internet and get your work done without any hassle.




The card can be purchased in a range of specifications, mainly they are A, B, G and N. These all have different capabilities and ranges.

A is broadcast on more than one signal and offers 54mbps on a 5GHz range, while B has a long range of up to 500 feet and operates on one channel at a time, this type can offer you 11mbps on a 2.4GHz range. The G is the most popular and affordable choice, it uses one frequency with a slightly shorter range, but offers 54mbps on a 2.4GHz range.

The latest development is the N card; this has increased data speeds of up to 150mbps and uses two channels, although it is slightly more expensive, it offers increased range and speed, making it a new firm favorite.

Of course your range also will depend on some factors, if you intend using your laptop upstairs in your bedroom, but your modem is downstairs in the kitchen, the range may be effected due to thick floors. Walls can also affect the range, where clear open space offers the best results. But don’t let this deter you, a wireless connection can easily be made through one wall, it’s when it has a couple of walls and a fair distance to travel that you may lose connection.

These 802.11 wireless cards fit either into your computers PCI slot or your laptops PC slot. You load the software onto your computer using the CD provided and then inset the product and you are ready to enjoy wireless internet.

There is one important factor you always need to consider when using a wireless connection in the office or home, always ensure that you have added a password to protect your network. There could be someone outside with a wireless enabled laptop accessing your internet and using up your monthly allowance, so always protect yourself.

Netgear and Belkin are firm favorites when it comes to the 802.11wireless card, they are the leaders in the market at the moment. Belkin also offers an 802.11 wireless card USB adapter, which offers wireless capabilities to your computer or laptop through your USB port. It is a small device which plugs in and then uses the G network to access the internet wirelessly.

The decision to make your computer or laptop wireless may be a result of your modem being in an area where you can’t keep your computer or you want to enjoy the ease of using your laptop anywhere in the home. Bear in mind once you have enabled your laptop to be wireless, you can take advantage of the internet whether you are using it at home, the office or anywhere who offers wireless internet. It is not only restricted to your specific modem.

An 802.11 wireless card offers you the ability to access the internet wirelessly, making it a convenient piece of hardware to own if you enjoy surfing the internet on a regular basis.