A wireless router can give you the freedom to use your Internet connection anywhere in your home.

What is a wireless router? It's a device that allows you to run all the computers in your home off one broadband Internet connection. It achieves this by establishing a wireless connection between your modem and the computers, provided they have a wireless card to "talk" with the router. Many routers also incorporate a modem, so you'll only need a single box.

Why would I want one? For the same reason you might want a second bathroom. It will mean you don't have to compete with your kids and/or husband to get time online. You can be chatting online with your sister in Perth while your husband is researching Harley Davidson motorcycles and your daughter is updating her Facebook page.
 

A router with integrated ADSL modem, such as this one from D-Link, retails for about $150.

What if my computers don't have a wireless card? Most routers have at least one ethernet (or non-wireless) plug, which means your main computer will not require a wireless card. For the others, you can buy a wireless "key" that plugs into a free USB port, or a kit to install a wireless card into the hard drive.

How much will it cost? Wireless routers are available from consumer-electronics retailers, where you'll pay around $100 for a router alone, and about $150 for a router combined with an ADSL modem. Some Internet service providers - Bigpond, for example - now also offer their own wireless-router products. These cost more, but come with tech support for those who are not confident about installing a router themselves.

Will this affect my Internet costs? Quite possibly. Remember that you will all be using a single Internet account, so if you have a monthly download limit, you may meet it more quickly than before. If this happens, consider upgrading your plan.

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