Windows Vista Wireless Routers

In order for me to explain what the heck Windows Vista wireless routers are, I'm going to need to define some terms. Windows Vista is the latest version of the Windows platform, which is itself in a couple of versions. (Other Windows platforms include Windows 2000 and Windows XP).

Wireless routers are like cable modems in that they help you connect your computer to the internet, except they connect your computer to the Ethernet (wireless internet). However, not all wireless routers will be able to communicate with the Windows Vista platform.

Tricky, Huh?

If you have Windows Vista, wireless routers can be a problem since only a few have been known to successfully communicate with Vista. Since Vista is such a new platform, it has its bugs to work out, and connecting wireless routers seems to be one of them. However, Microsoft has been working with some wireless router makers.

Only those branded "Certified for Windows Vista" are the wireless routers for you. Microsoft's official website (www.microsoft,com) recommends that if you can't get a certified router, the next best is "an a/g router such as the Linksys WRT55AG (running the v1.79 firmware upgrade)." (Just take that to your computer store. They'll know what it means)

Tech Stuff

Let's get even more specific about Windows Vista wireless routers. You don't have to understand any of this to get your Windows Vista wireless router to work, so if you skip these paragraphs, I promise I wont be offended. Your wireless router will work best on a 5 GHz (gigahertz) frequency, rather than the standard 2.4 GHz. Microwaves, cell phones, baby monitors and lots of other common devices work on the 2.4 GHz level along with wireless routers.

If you want to run an Xbox 360 (one of those complicated video game systems that makes an Atari look like Pong), then Microsoft recommends that you use the 802.11a wireless adapter for the Xbox 360 to take advantage of the 5-GHz frequency for video streaming." In other words, it'll make the video games run smoother.

Sticking It In Your Home

Anything wireless, even wireless routers, need as unbroken a line of communication through the air as possible. Try to keep any home decorations or furnishings from around your router. Getting an antenna is recommended. You might also have to move your computer around the room or in a half circle to get a proper picture.

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Tagged with: wireless • Wireless Internet