Expert: Bobbert - 3/29/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi,

I have been one of the last users of dial-up Internet service and now I'm  finally buying a new computer to catch up to the rest of the world. I'm buying a Dell desktop online and my new provider will be Cox Cable(I live in Arizona),which will provide me with their high speed Internet service.

However,I am really uninformed about getting a modem that will allow me to move my desktop from my bedroom to the living room(I have Netflix and would like to see films w/ friends and family outside my room). I have a computer cart to help move them around.

What exactly I am looking for,a wireless modem or a wireless router/ modem? Does the modem come already inside the Dell computer(like the old dial-up)?

Thanks,
Tony Perez

ANSWER: The modem will be provided by Cox, either through rental or purchase. It will provide an 8P8C Ethernet connection, to which you can attach a router or computer (I suggest a router, even with a single computer, just for security). The router you purchase can either be "wired" (meaning only wired connections are possible), or "wireless" (meaning wired and wireless connections are possible), you can then either connect an ethernet cable to your system, or connect via WiFi (you'll need a WiFi adapter for your computer), if you take the WiFi route, do know that you will have somewhat higher latency and lower access speed than via wired (it will still be many tens to hundreds of times faster than 56.6k dial-up). I would advise that you enable security options if you take the wireless route (so nobody "shares" your new internet service).

Given the mobile needs of your new system, you may consider a laptop, and simply connecting its video and audio out to your existing home entertainment system as needed. Most all laptops will come pre-configured with a WiFi adapter as well, which would aid to mobility. Furthermore, you could keep your existing system connected to a network via ethernet to a wireless router, and share data/services with the new laptop (or desktop).

If you have any further questions, feel free to ask.

-bob


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Bob, thanks for getting back to me with an answer. I've been trying to get up to date on everything and it makes sense but I have one more follow up question: I was wondering if the Motorola SURFboard wireless cable modem gateway SBG900,is a modem and router in one?Or should I buy a separate cable modem and router?

Thanks again and sorry about the late response,
Tony

Answer
That device looks to be a basic cable modem with wireless router capabilities, I wouldn't advise such a device if you have a choice, as it only offers WEP security for its wireless networking (which is VERY insecure, and can generally be compromised in 10 minutes or less by an average "geek"), while a modern wireless router will give you WPA2 security (still not "flawless", but far better than the older/outdated WEP), and more than one ethernet connection (allowing for wired connection of multiple PCs).

I would preferably go with a wired cable modem and wired/wireless router, if possible. If that Motorola device is your only choice from your ISP, see if the wireless can be disabled (it very likely can), and simply use the device as a wired cable modem, and provide your own wired/wireless router (such as a Linksys WRT54G or Netgear WPN824).

-bob