My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

MM

MM wrote:

My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

MM

Get a mate with a smartphone to come round.
--
Tim Watts Personal Blog: http://www.dionic.net/tim/

"A fanatic is one who can't change his mind and won't change the subject."

In article ,
MM wrote:
My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

have you got a nearby friend with a laptop? Failing that, a Tablet would
be able to test the wireless bit. you can probably get one for about £50.

--
From KT24

Using a RISC OS computer running v5.18

"MM" wrote in message
...
My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

Kindle?

You could activate the wifi and ask a neighbour to connect to it and test.
But put a password on it once you've made sure it's working and for when
you've got it on for any length of time.

Or.... if you don't want to spend much, just buy a crappy Wifi card or USB
Wifi stick for a few quid, fit to your PC and test. Doesn't have to be
"Wireless N" as long as your router supports slower devices.

On Saturday, 29 December 2012 14:42:57 UTC, MM wrote:
My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a

relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to

connect to my network.



I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet

Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem

are upstairs.)



I'm thinking of buying this:

TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access

Point



But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of

testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop

(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to

get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do

is switch laptop on and it connects).



So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the

wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender

with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,

e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with

wifi inbuilt as standard.



MM

You can get a wireless dongle for as little as £4.20 like this
http://www.amazon.co.uk/WIRELESS-ADA...6792811&sr=8-1

and use it on your laptop to test.

On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:47:12 +0000, Tim Watts
wrote:

MM wrote:

My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

MM

Get a mate with a smartphone to come round.

And then what?!!! I am a COMPLETE novice where wifi is concerned.
What's supposed to happen?

MM

On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:53:33 -0000, "Mentalguy2k8"
wrote:


"MM" wrote in message
.. .
My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

Kindle?

You could activate the wifi and ask a neighbour to connect to it and test.
But put a password on it once you've made sure it's working and for when
you've got it on for any length of time.

Or.... if you don't want to spend much, just buy a crappy Wifi card or USB
Wifi stick for a few quid, fit to your PC and test. Doesn't have to be
"Wireless N" as long as your router supports slower devices.

Ah! You mean, convert one of my PCs to wifi. Didn't think of that,
thanks. So if I bunged in a cheapo WiFi card into one of my spare PCI
slots, it would just work, yes? I could disconnect the Cat5 cable from
that PC and it would work via WiFi to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200
Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access Point"? Is that what you
mean?

Or maybe even one of these which I've just found on Amazon:
TP-Link TL-WN822N 300MBPS High Gain Wireless N USB Adapter

Bit pricier, but still only just over 15 quid with supersaver
delivery. Plus, I really do rate the TP-Link stuff very highly.

MM

On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 06:55:56 -0800 (PST), JohnW
wrote:

You can get a wireless dongle for as little as £4.20 like this
http://www.amazon.co.uk/WIRELESS-ADA...6792811&sr=8-1

and use it on your laptop to test.

I don't have a laptop! Only desktops. Will that dongle work on a
home-brew PC too? (Currently connected to router via Cat5)

MM

MM wrote:
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:47:12 +0000, Tim Watts
Get a mate with a smartphone to come round.

And then what?!!! I am a COMPLETE novice where wifi is concerned.
What's supposed to happen?

Most modern smartphones can connect to Wifi. Mine has a good Wifi
sniffing application available, so I can even use it to check things
like signal level in the room I intend to use Wifi in.
--
Tciao for Now!

John.

MM wrote:
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 06:55:56 -0800 (PST), JohnW
wrote:

You can get a wireless dongle for as little as £4.20 like this
http://www.amazon.co.uk/WIRELESS-ADA...6792811&sr=8-1

and use it on your laptop to test.

I don't have a laptop! Only desktops. Will that dongle work on a
home-brew PC too? (Currently connected to router via Cat5)

Any USB Wifi dongle will work on any Windows PC with a spare USB
connection, as long as there is a driver available for the version of
Windows being used. The only problem will be that speed may be limited
by the USB connection, although it will be fast enough to verify the
connection.

--
Tciao for Now!

John.

On 29/12/2012 14:55, JohnW wrote:
On Saturday, 29 December 2012 14:42:57 UTC, MM wrote:
My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a

relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to

connect to my network.



I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet

Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem

are upstairs.)



I'm thinking of buying this:

TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access

Point



But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of

testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop

(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to

get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do

is switch laptop on and it connects).



So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the

wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender

with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,

e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with

wifi inbuilt as standard.



MM

You can get a wireless dongle for as little as £4.20 like this
http://www.amazon.co.uk/WIRELESS-ADA...6792811&sr=8-1

and use it on your laptop to test.

My son recently bought one of those (not that specific device, but an
equally cheap one off Amazon) as a stopgap at uni, to get his desktop PC
hooked up to the net; however he never managed to get it working; it
wasn't straightforward and he isn't particularly techie TBH.

I would strongly second the suggestion of getting someone who already
has an internet-enabled device (phone or laptop) to pop round and try it
out at your gaff - they'll presumably know how to connect their own
device, too.

David

In article ,
John Williamson wrote:
MM wrote:
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:47:12 +0000, Tim Watts
Get a mate with a smartphone to come round.

And then what?!!! I am a COMPLETE novice where wifi is concerned.
What's supposed to happen?

Most modern smartphones can connect to Wifi. Mine has a good Wifi
sniffing application available, so I can even use it to check things
like signal level in the room I intend to use Wifi in.

and I've found a Windows application for that as well, so it now lives on
my laptop.

--
From KT24

Using a RISC OS computer running v5.18

MM wrote:

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection

Haven't you got a friend or neighbour who could test it from a laptop or
smartphone?

If he also has a radio of the portable kind, simply do not use a powerline
device, they are horrible for splurging crap all over the place.

Brian

--
Brian Gaff....Note, this account does not accept Bcc: email.
graphics are great, but the blind can't hear them
Email:
__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________


"MM" wrote in message
...
My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

MM

"MM" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:53:33 -0000, "Mentalguy2k8"
wrote:


"MM" wrote in message
. ..
My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

Kindle?

You could activate the wifi and ask a neighbour to connect to it and test.
But put a password on it once you've made sure it's working and for when
you've got it on for any length of time.

Or.... if you don't want to spend much, just buy a crappy Wifi card or USB
Wifi stick for a few quid, fit to your PC and test. Doesn't have to be
"Wireless N" as long as your router supports slower devices.

Ah! You mean, convert one of my PCs to wifi. Didn't think of that,
thanks. So if I bunged in a cheapo WiFi card into one of my spare PCI
slots, it would just work, yes? I could disconnect the Cat5 cable from
that PC and it would work via WiFi to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200
Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access Point"? Is that what you
mean?

Yep! Or even easier, buy a USB wifi adapter and then you don't even need to
dismantle the PC.

Of course it goes without saying I hope that the wireless bit will be
passworded. I used to have an open link till evey tom dick and harriet
started to use it from their cars outside. Usually late at night, I hate to
think what else they might have been up to....

Brian

--
Brian Gaff....Note, this account does not accept Bcc: email.
graphics are great, but the blind can't hear them
Email:
__________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________


"John Williamson" wrote in message
...
MM wrote:
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:47:12 +0000, Tim Watts
Get a mate with a smartphone to come round.

And then what?!!! I am a COMPLETE novice where wifi is concerned.
What's supposed to happen?

Most modern smartphones can connect to Wifi. Mine has a good Wifi sniffing
application available, so I can even use it to check things like signal
level in the room I intend to use Wifi in.
--
Tciao for Now!

John.

On 29/12/12 14:58, MM wrote:

And then what?!!! I am a COMPLETE novice where wifi is concerned.
What's supposed to happen?

Ok...quick overview.

Wifi works on one or tow FREQUENCIES split into up to 13 CHANNELS.

The setup for those is normally dine automatically, but you can override
defaults to e.g. move your wifi off teh same channel your neighbour is on.

each base station can and should have an SSID setup (stands for
something station ID).

you type in this inyto teh base station web page. Something like MMWIFI
or so on.

Each base station can and SHOULD (for domestic use) have a password or
pass phrase, and set up some form of encryption. IRC the norm is
WPA/TKIP or somesuch these days. Others will know better.

each base station may, or may not, reveal its SSID to anyone in range.
Its usual to set this to yes, unless you are very paranoid.

At ythis pint you should have a situation in which any PC/smartphone
equipped with working wifi should be able to detect an access point -
the base station - and read its SSID which should be displayed. Then,
all other things being equal it will be possible to select that SSID and
it will prompt for the pass phrase, and on entering that it should
connect to your base station, and if all is OK acquire an internet
connection through your router, and also acquire the ability to connect
in various ways to other machines on your home network: assuming that
the base station is connected to your network.

Which it has to be to set it upp. I am not exactly sure how you do
connect toi the local network, because teh access poiint will need an IP
address and yoiu wnt necessarily know what that is if its assigned
automatically.

At this point I hand over to someone who has actually set one up...but
you SHOULD be able to download easy start guides for the box off the
internet before you buy it, which should explain more.


Its a lot easier than it used top be when the dongles sand access points
didn't automatically set themselves to the standard of the other, and
you had to settle on the right one to start with on both.

These days the average chav with half an O level can set one up, so its
not that hard. Setting them up to be secure is, however, slightly more
complex..






MM



--
Ineptocracy

(in-ep-toc-ra-cy) €“ a system of government where the least capable to
lead are elected by the least capable of producing, and where the
members of society least likely to sustain themselves or succeed, are
rewarded with goods and services paid for by the confiscated wealth of a
diminishing number of producers.

On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:42:57 +0000, MM wrote:

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"?

Buy a cheapy Samsung wifi enabled Europa phone for 20quid. Doesn't
need to be unlocked if you're only using it as a wifi tester.
Alternatively, ask anyone passing with a smartphone to see if your
wifi is working.

"Brian Gaff" wrote:
If he also has a radio of the portable kind, simply do not use a powerline
device, they are horrible for splurging crap all over the place.

Brian


My power line kit doesn't cause any problems with any of the radios I use.

MM wrote:

On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:47:12 +0000, Tim Watts
wrote:

MM wrote:

My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

MM

Get a mate with a smartphone to come round.

And then what?!!! I am a COMPLETE novice where wifi is concerned.
What's supposed to happen?

MM

Ask him to walk around and test the connection - many smartphones will give
you signal strength - or there's a free app for it. I have one on my Galaxy
S2 - occasionally very useful
--
Tim Watts Personal Blog: http://www.dionic.net/tim/

"She got her looks from her father. He's a plastic surgeon."

On 29/12/2012 14:42, MM wrote:
My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

MM

Is there anything stopping your relative from using a CAT5 cable whilst
at your place?

On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:42:57 +0000, MM wrote:

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

Well that is one option as you already have other Powerline stuff (which
I wouldn't touch with a barge pole due to the RF crap they spray all over
the SW bands).

But as you have a cat5 network and presumably a spare port on your
network switch all you need is a WiFi (aka wireless) Access Point. If you
insist on TP-Link have a look at the TL-WA701ND for just over 20 notes
rather than nearer 40 for you powerline thingy.

I did find an AP for £9.99 the other day, might have been this one:

http://www.ebuyer.com/169923-tenda-w...nt-router-exte
nder-w311r-

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

Easy way is mate/neighbour with Smartphone/tablet/laptop.

--
Cheers
Dave.

On 29/12/2012 14:58, MM wrote:
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:47:12 +0000, Tim Watts
wrote:

MM wrote:

My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

MM

Get a mate with a smartphone to come round.

And then what?!!! I am a COMPLETE novice where wifi is concerned.
What's supposed to happen?

You'll have already set up the router with a wifi name (SSID) and a
password (both of your choice); your mate will be able to 'see' the
named network on his phone, and by entering the password will be able to
access the internet over your system. That's it really.

David

On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 00:22:34 +0000, Lobster
wrote:

On 29/12/2012 14:58, MM wrote:
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:47:12 +0000, Tim Watts
wrote:

MM wrote:

My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

MM

Get a mate with a smartphone to come round.

And then what?!!! I am a COMPLETE novice where wifi is concerned.
What's supposed to happen?

You'll have already set up the router with a wifi name (SSID)

No, the existing network is a *wired* setup employing only Cat5
cables. The Thomson SpeedTouch model 536 connects to the phone socket
and to the D-Link DES-1005D switch. I currently have NO wifi. The
extra TP-Link gizmo that I'll buy is for adding wifi to the existing
wired installation.

and a
password (both of your choice); your mate will be able to 'see' the
named network on his phone, and by entering the password will be able to
access the internet over your system. That's it really.

Now, I do understand that the TP-Link gizmo ~can~ be configured with a
password and I assume that any laptop or other wifi-enabled device
connecting to the wired network via the TP-Link wifi gizmo will need
this password, if set up.

MM

On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 20:35:40 +0000, Part Timer
wrote:

On 29/12/2012 14:42, MM wrote:
My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop
(until said relative arrives, which is too late; I want to be able to
get it all up and running before then so that all relative has to do
is switch laptop on and it connects).

So what would I need to spend to buy something that would test the
wifi-connection to the "TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender
with Wireless N Access Point"? I suppose a cheapo Notebook thingy,
e.g. Acer, is about as low as it goes. I believe these all come with
wifi inbuilt as standard.

MM

Is there anything stopping your relative from using a CAT5 cable whilst
at your place?

I thought of that point, too. But in households where Cat5 is
considered as ancient as Bakelite telephones, it seems only wifi is
acceptable! And said relative IS coming specifically to help me
recuperate for ten days from a forthcoming op, so I feel I have to do
my "bit" as well. I myself simply use the TP-Link TL-PA211 homeplugs
whenever I need to use one of my PCs in a different part of the house.
As long as there is a 3-pin socket in the vicinity, no problemo. The
TP-Link TL-PA211 kit (£30.95 from Amazon and worth every penny) came
with its own short piece of Cat5 cable and I just use that. But I am a
"wired" person. It seems other, more "advanced" users (usually young
people...) look down upon wired users as if they have the plague or
something. Or are just old, like me. My niece paid a visit a few
weekends ago and the first thing she asked was, how can she connect
her laptop? She had to "make do" with a 3m Cat5 cable! Oh, the shame!

MM

MM wrote:


No, the existing network is a *wired* setup employing only Cat5
cables. The Thomson SpeedTouch model 536 connects to the phone socket
and to the D-Link DES-1005D switch. I currently have NO wifi. The
extra TP-Link gizmo that I'll buy is for adding wifi to the existing
wired installation.

Oh - I see. Thought you had a WIFI base station but it range was
insufficient.

and a
password (both of your choice); your mate will be able to 'see' the
named network on his phone, and by entering the password will be able to
access the internet over your system. That's it really.

Now, I do understand that the TP-Link gizmo ~can~ be configured with a
password and I assume that any laptop or other wifi-enabled device
connecting to the wired network via the TP-Link wifi gizmo will need
this password, if set up.

MM

When you do, choose "WPA2/PSK" as the encryption/security method - it's the
most secure of the options. At least do not choose "WEP".

--
Tim Watts Personal Blog: http://www.dionic.net/tim/

"A fanatic is one who can't change his mind and won't change the subject."

MM wrote:


I thought of that point, too. But in households where Cat5 is
considered as ancient as Bakelite telephones,

Cat5e (strictly) is superior to WiFi in terms of reliability and speed
(gigabit). WiFi of course allows one to roam free subject to obstacles and
distance!

There's nothing "ancient" about a wired installation -

it seems only wifi is
acceptable! And said relative IS coming specifically to help me
recuperate for ten days from a forthcoming op, so I feel I have to do
my "bit" as well.

but that's fair enough - if he's bringing a "pad" or mobile phone, wired is
not really an option.

I myself simply use the TP-Link TL-PA211 homeplugs
whenever I need to use one of my PCs in a different part of the house.
As long as there is a 3-pin socket in the vicinity, no problemo. The
TP-Link TL-PA211 kit (£30.95 from Amazon and worth every penny) came
with its own short piece of Cat5 cable and I just use that. But I am a
"wired" person. It seems other, more "advanced" users (usually young
people...) look down upon wired users as if they have the plague or
something. Or are just old, like me. My niece paid a visit a few
weekends ago and the first thing she asked was, how can she connect
her laptop? She had to "make do" with a 3m Cat5 cable! Oh, the shame!

Pah...

Anyway, I recommend

http://www.tp-link.com/en/products/d...del=TL-WA901ND

a very competant piece of kit.

--
Tim Watts Personal Blog: http://www.dionic.net/tim/

"History will be kind to me for I intend to write it."

On 30/12/2012 08:13, MM wrote:
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 20:35:40 +0000, Part Timer
wrote:

Is there anything stopping your relative from using a CAT5 cable
whilst at your place?

I thought of that point, too. But in households where Cat5 is
considered as ancient as Bakelite telephones, it seems only wifi is
acceptable! And said relative IS coming specifically to help me
recuperate for ten days from a forthcoming op, so I feel I have to
do my "bit" as well. I myself simply use the TP-Link TL-PA211
homeplugs whenever I need to use one of my PCs in a different part of
the house. As long as there is a 3-pin socket in the vicinity, no
problemo. The TP-Link TL-PA211 kit (£30.95 from Amazon and worth
every penny) came with its own short piece of Cat5 cable and I just
use that. But I am a "wired" person. It seems other, more "advanced"
users (usually young people...) look down upon wired users as if they
have the plague or something. Or are just old, like me.

It's horses for courses really. Personally I have both wired and
wireless in my home; the wifi is brilliant for portable stuff like
laptops and smartphones, which may be used anywhere in the building
without being tethered to one location. However other kit like desktop
PCs, a media player, and even the new TV and Blu-Ray player (which
somewhat surprisingly) are both internet capable - are all hard-wired.
Given the lack of need to move these around, and as all the cabling is
neatly buried under floors etc, there would be absolutely no benefit in
using wifi and all of its potential disadvantages - lower bandwidth,
interference from other sources, security issues etc etc.

My niece paid a visit a few
weekends ago and the first thing she asked was, how can she connect
her laptop? She had to "make do" with a 3m Cat5 cable! Oh, the shame!

Well, FWIW my son back from uni with his high-powered gaming computer is
now begging me to install a wired connection in his bedroom, as the wifi
isn't good enough for him (tough!)

David

But I am a
"wired" person. It seems other, more "advanced" users (usually young
people...) look down upon wired users as if they have the plague or
something. Or are just old, like me.

Yeah but young people's houses are full of chargers and blinking leds.
They can shove Angry Birds too

On 30/12/2012 08:05, MM wrote:
On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 00:22:34 +0000, Lobster
wrote:

On 29/12/2012 14:58, MM wrote:
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:47:12 +0000, Tim Watts
wrote:

MM wrote:

My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

Have you considered just replacing the exisiting router with one which
includes wireless functionality? The only issue with that is whether
you'd have adequate wifi coverage where you need it in the house
(depends on distance, wall thickness etc) but otherwise all things being
equal it would be a much better solution than buying a mains-borne
device. And cheaper

Get a mate with a smartphone to come round.

And then what?!!! I am a COMPLETE novice where wifi is concerned.
What's supposed to happen?

You'll have already set up the router with a wifi name (SSID)

No, the existing network is a *wired* setup employing only Cat5
cables. The Thomson SpeedTouch model 536 connects to the phone socket
and to the D-Link DES-1005D switch. I currently have NO wifi. The
extra TP-Link gizmo that I'll buy is for adding wifi to the existing
wired installation.

Yeah, I get that - hence "You'll have", not "You have"! To be honest
if you were getting a normal wifi router rather than a powerline one I'd
probably suggest you just wait until the relative arrives and it would
be fine - it's that straightforward to enable the wifi - however these
powerline jobs can be a little flaky and/or ideosyncratic, so it's
probably worthwhile checking out in advance as you are planning.

Now, I do understand that the TP-Link gizmo ~can~ be configured with a
password and I assume that any laptop or other wifi-enabled device
connecting to the wired network via the TP-Link wifi gizmo will need
this password, if set up.

Yes.

David

On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 10:35:45 +0000, Tim Watts wrote:

When you do, choose "WPA2/PSK" as the encryption/security method - it's
the most secure of the options.

And if you have a choice of encryption method choose AES.

At least do not choose "WEP".

Always assuming you don't have devices that only talk WEP... wanders of
muttering about Nintendo DSi....

--
Cheers
Dave.

On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 11:02:23 +0000, Lobster wrote:

Have you considered just replacing the exisiting router with one which
includes wireless functionality? The only issue with that is whether
you'd have adequate wifi coverage where you need it in the house
(depends on distance, wall thickness etc) ...

Two things. All your eggs in one basket, nearby lighting strike zaps the
combined ADSL modem/router/switch/AP and everything is down, including
the LAN and wireless connections. And as you point out the location
required for the ADSL/router/switch due to phone line and/or network
cabling may well not be the best for WiFi coverage from the AP.

... but otherwise all things being equal ...

Which they aren't.

... it would be a much better solution than buying a mains-borne
device. And cheaper

Almost anything would be better than using a powerline device. B-)

--
Cheers
Dave.

On Dec 29, 2:42*pm, MM wrote:
My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

But as none of my three PCs is wifi-enabled, I've got no way of
testing whether the wireless part will work to my relative's laptop

It will almost certainly have an Ethernet socket so just buy an extra
cable.

MBQ

On 30/12/12 12:13, Dave Liquorice wrote:

Almost anything would be better than using a powerline device. B-)

except wifi...


--
Ineptocracy

(in-ep-toc-ra-cy) €“ a system of government where the least capable to
lead are elected by the least capable of producing, and where the
members of society least likely to sustain themselves or succeed, are
rewarded with goods and services paid for by the confiscated wealth of a
diminishing number of producers.

On 30/12/2012 12:13, Dave Liquorice wrote:

Almost anything would be better than using a powerline device. B-)

Works far better than wi-fi here...

--
F

On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 10:35:45 +0000, Tim Watts
wrote:

MM wrote:


No, the existing network is a *wired* setup employing only Cat5
cables. The Thomson SpeedTouch model 536 connects to the phone socket
and to the D-Link DES-1005D switch. I currently have NO wifi. The
extra TP-Link gizmo that I'll buy is for adding wifi to the existing
wired installation.

Oh - I see. Thought you had a WIFI base station but it range was
insufficient.

No, no, not at all. I am perfectly content with a wired network, but
said relative only understands wifi, so I'm trying to meet this
requirement. Who knows? Maybe I'll become a convert to wifi myself in
future!

MM

On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 11:02:23 +0000, Lobster
wrote:

On 30/12/2012 08:05, MM wrote:
On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 00:22:34 +0000, Lobster
wrote:

On 29/12/2012 14:58, MM wrote:
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:47:12 +0000, Tim Watts
wrote:

MM wrote:

My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

Have you considered just replacing the exisiting router with one which
includes wireless functionality? The only issue with that is whether
you'd have adequate wifi coverage where you need it in the house
(depends on distance, wall thickness etc) but otherwise all things being
equal it would be a much better solution than buying a mains-borne
device. And cheaper

I don't myself like wifi. Never have. Cat5 provides me with total
reliability and efficient downloading. It's all I need.

MM

On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 11:02:23 +0000, Lobster
wrote:

On 30/12/2012 08:05, MM wrote:
On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 00:22:34 +0000, Lobster
wrote:

On 29/12/2012 14:58, MM wrote:
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:47:12 +0000, Tim Watts
wrote:

MM wrote:

My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

Have you considered just replacing the exisiting router with one which
includes wireless functionality? The only issue with that is whether
you'd have adequate wifi coverage where you need it in the house
(depends on distance, wall thickness etc) but otherwise all things being
equal it would be a much better solution than buying a mains-borne
device. And cheaper

Get a mate with a smartphone to come round.

And then what?!!! I am a COMPLETE novice where wifi is concerned.
What's supposed to happen?

You'll have already set up the router with a wifi name (SSID)

No, the existing network is a *wired* setup employing only Cat5
cables. The Thomson SpeedTouch model 536 connects to the phone socket
and to the D-Link DES-1005D switch. I currently have NO wifi. The
extra TP-Link gizmo that I'll buy is for adding wifi to the existing
wired installation.

Yeah, I get that - hence "You'll have", not "You have"! To be honest
if you were getting a normal wifi router rather than a powerline one I'd
probably suggest you just wait until the relative arrives and it would
be fine - it's that straightforward to enable the wifi - however these
powerline jobs can be a little flaky and/or ideosyncratic, so it's
probably worthwhile checking out in advance as you are planning.

Well, I hear what you say, but I can only say that my TP-Link home
plugs have been 100% reliable with no perceived degradation when
copying/downloading files if I'm temporarily connected via a TP-Link
home plug downstairs through the house wiring. I will point out that
the house is only 9 years old, so the ring mains should be tip-top.
There's a separate circuit for the upper/lower floor ring mains, each
with its own trip switch in the consumer unit, but the jolly old
TP-Link thingy just works every time no matter where I plug it in.

MM

On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 12:13:32 +0000 (GMT), "Dave Liquorice"
wrote:

Almost anything would be better than using a powerline device. B-)

I disagree. I cannot speak highly enough of the TP-Link products, and
my brother says the same, and his house isn't merely 9 years old, it's
350 years old!

MM

On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 14:12:10 +0000, MM wrote:

On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 11:02:23 +0000, Lobster
wrote:

On 30/12/2012 08:05, MM wrote:
On Sun, 30 Dec 2012 00:22:34 +0000, Lobster
wrote:

On 29/12/2012 14:58, MM wrote:
On Sat, 29 Dec 2012 14:47:12 +0000, Tim Watts
wrote:

MM wrote:

My Cat5 network at home works fine, but soon I shall be entertaining a
relative for several weeks, the relative has a laptop and wishes to
connect to my network.

I already have two TP-Link TL-PA211KIT 200Mbps Mini Powerline Ethernet
Adapters to run a PC downstairs via the mains, (Router and ADSL modem
are upstairs.)

I'm thinking of buying this:
TP Link TL-WPA281 AV200 Powerline Extender with Wireless N Access
Point

Have you considered just replacing the exisiting router with one which
includes wireless functionality? The only issue with that is whether
you'd have adequate wifi coverage where you need it in the house
(depends on distance, wall thickness etc) but otherwise all things being
equal it would be a much better solution than buying a mains-borne
device. And cheaper

I don't myself like wifi. Never have. Cat5 provides me with total
reliability and efficient downloading. It's all I need.

I get better downloads from my netbook on wi-fi than I do from my
wired-up desktop. That probably tells you all you need to know about
my desktop, doesn't it?

Nick