This weekend past, I finally installed the WiFi network for the house. 'Finally' because I bought the router / access point and network card about a year ago. I have a problem with procrastination.

The installation went reasonably well. It only took uninstalling and re-installing the network cards twice to get Windows 98 to Plug-and-Play nicely. Everything else about the install and configuration was very smooth. I use a Linksys 4-Port Router with Wireless Access Point (BEFW11S4) and LinkSys Wireless Network Card (WMP11). I moved the access point around a few times to find where it best broadcast to the PC. Our house has too few phone jacks for my liking. The choices were limited to the kitchen, the living room, and the master bedroom. It ended up in the living room even though the spot in the kitchen has a shorter straight-line distance to the PC's antenna. I think the location in the living room has fewer walls and metal boxes in the way (refridgerator and the PC itself). I didn't try the bedroom because it is further away and has even more walls and metal boxes in the path. The 4 ports are somewhat wasted since there is no computer near enough to use a plug. One day the basement will house my office. The router and other such equipment will be there and the port plugs will get some use.

I configured my network to not broadcast the ID, to allow only MACs from my network cards, to be on a channel other than the the one used by the neighbors. I go back and forth on the need for WEP. I doubt anyone in the area is snooping packets or that I broadcast anything worth snooping. I will be switching to and from WEP to see if I can tell any difference in performance.

I will be letting some of my neighbors know that their wireless networks are broadcasting, open, on the default channel, and not WEPed. I have not tried to connect and would not expect a connection to work, but they would probably be better off not being so open with their networks.