We leave our Netgear ADSL wireless modem/router switched on h24, and it keeps a permanent broadband connection, that can be accessed as required by a PC, and various laptops. (The original ISP supplied modem is gathering dust).
The router was very easy to configure, following the 'on-screen' prompts, with the PC connected to the router via a Cat5 cable. During set-up, I allowed the wireless side to broadcast unencrypted, to simplify initial laptop reception. Then I followed various steps (WEP etc) to make the signal more secure.