What is wireless internet, and how does it work? Wireless internet is a technology that allows a computer or device to connect to the internet using radio waves. there are two key components to a wireless setup: A transmitter and a receiver. In order for a wireless internet to be available, a transmitter must be used to broadcast the signal. This transmitter usually comes in the form of either a wireless router or wireless modem. Both of these devices take an incoming internet source and then broadcast connections to that source. A wireless receiver allows a device to see that broadcast and then connect to it. So in order to connect to the internete wirelessly, there must be a wireless modem or router broadcasting a wireless connection and the device you are wanting to connect to the internet on must have a wireless receiver in order to detect and use that broadcast to connect to the internet. Most newer laptops have wireless receivers built into them, while most desktops do not. So if you have a laptop or desktop that does not have a wireless receiver, you will need to purchase one separately.   How far is the range of a wireless network? The typical broadcast range of a wireless modem or router is around 200 ft. If you go outside of this range, there will be no connection available. So you cannot for instance, setup a wireless network in your home, and be able to connect to it anywhere in the world. You will only be able to access that wireless network and the internet it provides within that range of that network.   I often see other wireless networks available. Should I connect to them? As more and more people and businesses setup wireless networks, when you check to see what wireless networks are available, you may see many others besides your own. In fact many businesses even offer free wireless to customers. Most networks you encouter however will likely be private, and thus intended to be used only by authorized users. These networks will usually be secured to prevent access, but in some case they are left unsecured. This does not mean however that you should connect to them just because you can. Unless you have been given explicit permission to connect to a network, unauthorized access could consitute as trespassing and carry with it legal liabilities. Another factor to consider is that any traffic that runs through a private network can be logged and tracked. This means that any site you access or information you transmit, whether it be emails or financial information could potentially be viewed by operator of that network. As such it as advisable to only connect to trusted networks you have been authorized to access.   Why is it important to secure my wireless network? Securing your wireless network insures the integrity and privacy of your network. If you leave your network unsecured, anyone will be able to potentially access your network, whether they be a neighbor or a stranger. This could affect the privacy of your data, as well as slow down your internet speeds, especially if they begin to download large files or access videos & music. Furthermore, if they utilize your network to engage in any malicous or illegal activity, you could potentially be liable. How do I check to see if my wireless network is secure? If your wireless network is secure, you should receive some sort of request for a password or key when accessing your wireless network. If you are able to connect with no such prompt, it is very likely your network is unsecured. to verify that your wireless network is secured, you will need to access your wireless modem or routers configuration screen. If you have a wireless modem provided from NewWave, you can check our Internet Guides and Manuals page for the manual for your wireless modem to determine if it is secured. If you have purchased your own wireless modem or router, you will need to refer to manual that came with it or contact the manufacturer to learn how to access and check its configuration.   How do I secure my wireless network? If you have a wireless modem provided by NewWave, you can check our Internet Guides and Manuals page for the guide for particular modem to learn how to secure its wireless connection. If you have purchased your own wireless modem or router, you will need to refer to the manual that came with it or contact the manufacturer to learn how to secure your wireless network. Need More Information? Contact Us Today or Click Here to Order Online