Thank you gentlemen, especially Mike-Bracknell for the detailed reply. Unfortunately, the answer to the question appears to be ... NO!
The information which Mike provided I have been aware of (note -
not understood!) for some time. Wifi routers have, similarly, been around for a long time. The plethora of wifi gadgets on the market over the last few years especially the almost ubiquitous smartphones and tablets would seem to predicate a NEED for a truly
simple connection device for the non-professional home user - hence my original question.
My constantly recurring stumbling block i.e. "Authentication problem" when queried via Google or somesuch produces responses which are as useful as ashtrays on motorcycles. ..."Click on the wireless networks icon" ... no such icon is present!!! Google
that and the MS
helppages move into chocolate fireguard territory!
I have, long since, given up trying to wirelessly connect my two laptops (Dell and Advent) but have just bought a Nexus 4 for SWMBO's birthday (and another for me!) and foolishly thought that the situation might have changed
Seems that I shall have to tell her to use it as a pocket computer and forget any thoughts of internet connection