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Wireless Internet Between Terms - Ask Our Expert
If you’re having technical, service or supply problems, or just have a question you want answering, why not write to OurExpert@BroadbandChoices.co.uk
Michael Phillips is product director at BroadbandChoices.co.uk and can help with anything from contractual problems, to giving technical advice or telling you how to speed up those slow movie downloads.
Our expert says...
Anne, this is a great question that can apply to parents who are expecting a visit from the kids in between terms and want to make sure broadband services are up and running.
You want to make sure you are configured for wireless access at home, with a wireless router. The best way to do this is to buy a wireless router or sign a new deal with your provider and they’ll send you a router in the post.
Remember, even with a wireless router, you can still plug in any computers which are not wireless with an Ethernet cable. It is as simple as plugging in.
Once your wireless configuration is in place your kids can come home with their laptops and simply log onto your wireless connection with the security code provided along with your wireless equipment.
The security code is known as a WPA code. The code is the password that is used to encrypt your data as it is processed. If you don’t have one in place then your connection could be intercepted, it’s therefore important to have that protection. Most wireless routers have a reach of up to 60 meters.
If you set your wireless router to have the same pass code as your kids have at university then as soon as they turn on their laptop they’ll have wireless access to the internet. Otherwise they will just have to type in the code to access your connection. This is a pretty straight forward process and they will not need to install and reinstall any software when they go from home to University and back.
Most ISPs offer the service of an engineer if you are not confident setting up your wireless router. BT (www.bt.co.uk) charges £50 for set up and Virgin Media (www.virginmedia.com) charges £30. You can also contact an independent company such as the Geek Squad for help
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