Wireless networks are helpful because they let you use your computer and connect to the Internet anywhere in your home or office. However, most wireless networks use a wireless router, which can be expensive. If you have more than one computer, you can set up a wireless network without buying a wireless router and save yourself some money.
In a traditional wireless network, a wireless router acts as a base station, much like the base station for cordless phones. All wireless communications go through the wireless router, allowing nearby computers to connect to the Internet or to each other.
How to enable Internet Connection Sharing
On networks with wireless routers, the router has the important job of forwarding communications from the computers on your home network to the Internet. On ad hoc networks, you must designate one computer to serve this role. The computer you choose must have a wired connection to the Internet, and it should be left on whenever you want to be able to use your other computers.
Windows XP shows its progress as it connects to your network. After you're connected, you can close the Wireless Network Connection window.
Repeat these three steps on each computer that you want to connect to your ad hoc wireless network.
Now you're ready to browse the Web wirelessly, from any computer you add to your home network.
