Laptop Question

[Sportsplayer792]

Ok so the main point of this post is this. We are looking to buy a laptop and think we've narrowed it down to about 2 models. The only thing is one of them does not have a modem. I'm pretty good with computers but am not great with them. OUr current setup is a SpeedStream modem hooked up to a Netgear router so we can use the internet on the computer and X-Box Live at the same time. We've never really had to use the wireless from the Netgear but my brother insists that it works. Does the laptop need a modem to access wireless internet, or will it have to be plugged in to an ethernet port? Appreciate any help thanks!

Also, just since I'm already asking, if anyone knows an inexpensive (around $600) laptop that is of good quality feel free to recommend it! Thanks!

 

If you are using a router and/or wireless, you do not need a modem.

A modem refers to the device used for connecting to dial up internet. It uses a phone cable.

If you have a router, you should be connecting your computer using an ethernet cable.

If you use wireless, there isn't a cable at all.


So, if you're using ethernet with a router (or wireless), then there is no need for a modem. Just keep in mind the laptop has to have a LAN card or wireless card.

 

[xeleration]

A modem can be used to connect to dialup or cable. A simple definition would be the device that connects you to the outside cable from your ISP. What you can do is purchase a router to split your connection to multiple devices. They're a little difficult to setup the first time, so if you're interested in a wireless/switch router, just post a price range and I'll find you a good model.

 

[Sportsplayer792]

Thanks for the replies. All we needed to know was if he purchased a laptop without a built in modem that he could still access internet through our wireless router. Since it will work, he went ahead and ordered the Dell Insprion 15. If anyone is interested in purchasing a laptop, check this one out. There are 3 maybe 4 versions of it but I believe 3. He got the middle of the line one for only $100 more than the basic and the top of the line one was over $1500 more. The reason it was such a great buy was that if you buy it by tonight (Cyber Monday) you save $269 on it. So thats what he went with. I think he somewhat rushed the decision but hard to argue with a great savings like that.

 

[xeleration]

A laptop will not need a built in modem, but it will need a built in wireless card.

Most laptops without built in wireless cards do support externals, which are cheap nowadays.