Solved Can I add a router to an existing ethernet to get wi-fi

[blockie]

I presently have a ethernet system to my computer. Getting a laptop that has a wireless adapter. Can I just add a wireless router to the ethernet instead of my new laptop?

 

[broe23]

You do not need a router as long as you currently have one. If you only have a modem, you need an Access Point for adding Wifi to your network.

 

[blockie]

I'm not sure what my son has. He presently surfs the internet using his clone computer with WXP. I remotely looked at his adapters and he has only one and it is not wireless. His ISP is ATT.
I am getting him a laptop for Christmas and he will need a way to continue surfing the internet and watching movies.
My question is can he use the existing cable that he currently gets his internet from. Disconnect that cable from his current computer and connect it to a wireless router. What will he have wirelessly? Will he be able to surf the internet and watch movies with his new laptop, wirelessly? And I don't understand access point ( isn't that the router). And isn't a modem already installed if he can access the internet?

 

[broe23]

Then he has a Gateway most likely. Because you just answered your own question, by stating he has a wireless router. Just need the SsID & Passphrase, which are printed on the label of his Gateway. If he has changed the Passphrase & SSID from what ATT sets on the Gateway. You would need to get that info from him.

If it is low signal quality around the house. He just needs an Access Point, that uses modules that plug into electrical outlets, to allow extending the signal around the house.