How can I get my qwest DSL in multiple rooms?

Question

I have Qwest DSL service and two desktops in my house, the 1st desktop is right next to my Qwest modem, while my other one is about 50ft away in another room. I have a wired router and am aware that I could set up a wireless network and buy a wireless adapter for my desktop, but I'm trying to avoid 1) running a wire through my house to my 2nd desktop, and 2) the costs and time of setting up a wireless network.

Here's my real question: In my 2nd desktop's room, I have another phone jack, is it possible to somehow use this jack to retrieve my DSL, perhaps with another modem, and use the internet this way? otherwise, what do you recommend for a reliable way to set up a wireless network, USB or PCI adapter for my desktop? Brands? Tips? Or, have any tips on running a 50ft ethernet cable into my other room?

Thanks.

Answer 1

failing that, then you will need to go either wired or wireless networking.



I chose wireless, as I have a laptop, and it's nice to sometimes migrate into another part of the house. I got a wireless router, plugged it directly into my internet port (I'm satellite, because that's the only high-speed internet available.) plugged in my printer, and plugged in my laptop docking station. when I asked my brother (who's in the business) about brands, he said that different brands of wireless routers still use the same internal hardware, so there's not much hidden difference. I went with linksys, just because the customer reviews on Amazon were favorable.



as far as running a cable, I am an electrician, so I would pull out my tools, run a category 5e communications cable through the crawlspace (assuming you can get from point A to point B) bring it up inside the wall cavity, next to the phone jacks (into the same box, if I can cut the box out of the wall, and replace it with a minimum of fuss and bother) and install proper networking ports. the other common method for room-to-room cabling is to tuck the cable under the base mold (the strips that cover the edges of the carpeting.)



the third option os to call Qwest and ask them about wireless DSL - I've had a few custimers whose DSL provider (Embarq, in my area) simply brought a wireless DSL modem, and appropriate adaptors as part of the installation package.

Answer 2

You can't use a second DSL modem without a second phone line and DSL account.



The most reliable, and cheapest way is to run the 50' Ethernet cable. Nothing to set up - Just plug the cable into the PC and Router and it will work.



If you don't want to run a cable you could use Ethernet over powerline adapters at both ends. http://www.amazon.com/Netgear-85Mbps-Powerline-Network-Adapter/dp/B001AZUTCS/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1304154945&sr=1-3



If you want to go wireless you will need both a wireless access point or a second router with wireless features and a wireless adapter for the second PC.



You may just want to replace your Qwest modem/router with one that has wireless features built in. http://www.amazon.com/Actiontec-GT724WGR-Universally-Compatible-Wireless/dp/B0018CJ9LA/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1304156759&sr=1-5



To use a wireless connection, you'll have to purchase a wireless adapter for the PC. You can either install a card in the computer or buy one that plugs into a USB port. They are fairly inexpensive.



There are two current wireless standards, the newest is wireless N (300 Mbps) and the older is wireless G (54 Mbps). Either one will work fine with your Qwest DSL Internet connection.



Being that your Qwest DSL Internet connection (WAN) is most likely 1.5 to 6 Mbps and wireless G is many times faster at 54 Mbps, there is no real advantage in Internet speed by choosing wireless N. The only advantage would be in transferring files around between computers on your local LAN. Wireless N also has a larger range, meaning you can get a wireless signal at a larger distance from the router. However, remember to get either the speed or range improvements of wireless N, both devices have to be N. A wireless N router hooked to a wireless G adapter on a PC will have the range and speed of wireless G.



I'm not saying not to buy a wireless N router, I use one myself. Just don't expect any improvement in Internet speed. People that recommend N to improve Internet speed don't understand the concept, or they're lucky enough to live in a area and have the money to afford using ungodly fast and expensive Internet connections such as Comcast 105 Mbps.



Wireless connections require configuration to prevent anyone with a WiFi in range of your router from connecting to your network. They could do malicious deeds, such as hack into your network, or just leech off of your Internet bandwidth.



Wireless setup is not too difficult, Just follow the instructions in the router manual or wizard set up program. If you're having problems either pay someone to set it up for you or find a knowledgeable friend to configure it. Once the wireless network settings are configured it's a fairly trouble-free system.



Good Luck...

Answer 3

The answer to your question about using multiple jacks is no. Strictly speaking, it's yes, but you would need to buy another modem and you won't be able to use both computers at once. I figure for somebody who doesn't want to buy a wireless router, buying another modem to get a worse lashup is probably a deal-breaker.



Your best bet is to go wireless. Unless you have concrete or slump block walls, any wireless router made should be able to handle 50 feet with no problems.