Originally Posted by
Jimmy Macintosh
-Can I just buy something that connects to my cable modem?
-Do I need to replace the cable modem with a wireless modem?
-What pieces of equipment do I need, I hear of routers and hubs?
If the cable modem connects to your PC via USB, you'd probably have to buy a modem/router, so would buy a wireless modem/router.
A router is effectively the same thing as a hub in a domestic setup.
-Is a wireless connection as fast as my hard connection?
In theory, yes. In practice, it's usually slightly slower but you won't notice the difference if you're using up-to-date wireless kit.
-Are they reliable, or will I have to keep resetting it (saw a couple of threads about this)?
Good ones are totally reliable.
-Are they easy to secure effectively?
To a reasonable level of security, yes. If you have "WPA", it will only be a very determined spy who will hack it.
-If it's not secure does this provide a route into my home computer if someone is sitting outside or at worst can they only use it to get an internet connection?
It depends if you have another computer on the network and have allowed file sharing. However, if you have WPA security, the risk is low.
-Can you tell if someone is using it beside yourself?
On most wireless modem/routers, yes you can.