There are two things that you'll need to get into wireless broadband. The first is a wireless router, which most broadband ISPs (Internet Service Providers) will offer free when you commit to a broadband contract with them.

Once you have your wireless router and your phone line has been enabled for the broadband connection, you'll need to plug your router into the phone line and then use a network cable to set up all the options to get the router connected to the internet, and also to turn on the router's wireless capabilities and set up a password so that only you and your family or flat mates can access your wireless connection.

The second thing you'll need is a laptop or PC with either built in wireless capabilities or a separately purchased and installed wireless card or USB dongle. Most modern laptops come with wireless built in, but older models may need this small and cheap upgrade. Once your wireless router is all set up you can connect to it anywhere in your home using your laptop.

Different makes of routers have different ranges over which the internet connection can be broadcast, and if your router is in the basement and you're in the attic you may well not be able to get the signal, and if your house has got particularly thick stone walls you might have similar problems. However in the average home most routers will perform just fine.

Wireless Standards

There are currently three common standards of wireless broadband broadcasting; b, g and n. B is the oldest and is supported by most routers but only old laptops or old wireless cards will use it, and is capable of up to 11mbps transfer rate. G is more modern and far more widespread, and is capable of 54Mbps transfer.

The newest wireless standard available to the consumer is n and is capable of transfer rates of over 100Mbps. For the average broadband connection even the slowest wireless standard will suffice, but transferring files and folders between computers at home over your wireless network will benefit from the newer, quicker standards.

Wireless Broadband Out and About

The great thing about having a laptop with a wireless card installed or wireless built in is that you can then take it out with you and use other wireless networks to connect to the internet. Lots of businesses and companies have latched on to the popularity of wireless and are offering free wireless networks that you can hook up to when you're out of home with your laptop.

For example, loads of pubs, cafes, restaurants and coffee shops have installed wireless routers and offer customers free connection to the internet, provided you buy a drink every now and then. This means you can always keep up to date with emails and social networking sites in a bustling, stimulating environment. Now most commercial trains also have 'Wi-Fi Hotspots' which you can connect to if you're got the right equipment.