Building a WAN Network

Ensure High-Bandwith Modem Provides Internet Connection

You will need a high-speed bandwidth modem that always has Internet access. Before constructing your WAN, verify that your modem works. Select either a DSL or cable modem. These modem services are inexpensive and easy to set up.

Contact your phone company or an Internet service provider (ISP) to get DSL service. The phone company or ISP will send out a technician to your home or office to install and configure the DSL line. You will also receive a package that contains the following: modem, Ethernet cable, software, and instructions on how to install and configure the DSL modem.

Contact your cable company if you want to get the cable modem. The cable company will send out a technician to ensure you'll have Internet access.

Network Devices Needed for a WAN Network

Use a router that has switching technology. Switching technology allows you to connect multiple computers or other wireless devices, such as PDA (personal digital assistants) and smartphones to your WAN.

Get a wireless router that has "N technology," which is the fastest speed on the market. Wireless N is also backwards compatible, meaning that you if have a PC that transmits data at the 802.11 B standard, the router will transmit data at that speed.

Ensure that each device that will connect to the WAN has wireless capacities. Some devices will have built-in wireless adapters. However, you might have to install wireless cards in older personal computers. Then, install the card's software so that the WAN will be able to recognize the device.

Set up the Host PC for the WAN

You must set up one of your computers as the host. This is the system on which you will install the software and configure your WAN. Use an Ethernet cable to connect the modem to the router. Then, connect another Ethernet cable from the router to your host PC.

Your next step is to install the router software to set up your WAN. This will allow your devices to wirelessly communicate with each other. In addition, each wireless device can access the Internet.

[sweetjesus]

on 7/28/2009 OMG! This fool thinks a WAN is a wireless area network, too! Do some research before you try to come off like an expert, you imbecile.