Home Wireless InternetInstallation ExpertsHome wireless internet isn't very complicated to setup on your own, but some of us don't have the time or inclination to do it ourselves. That is where installation experts come in and make this process easy. Of course, if you have a friend who is tech savvy you might be able to save yourself some money. I list techno-geeks high on the networking list of "must have" friends. You never know when you're going to need answers, and the alternative is relatively expensive or involves learning it yourself.  Getting ConnectedIf you're like me you just want it done and you don't want to have to mess with it after that. If you don't have a tech savvy friend you can bribe with dinner or drinks you're going to have to do it yourself or pay someone to do it for you. If you must pay, here are some home wireless internet helpful tips. Figure this out in advance and help the process go smoother once the installation tech arrives: Decide where to place your wireless router Try to put it in a central location considering every possible place you might want to use your computer wirelessly. Your decision might depend on where your internet comes into your house. I have DSL and it comes through the phone lines. We have phone jacks throughout the house so we had lots of options. Cable internet will have less options for access. The internet comes in the house with cable television and you might be limited to where you can tap into that cable. In any event, have an idea where you want that equipment located. You shouldn't need to do anything to it once you are set up so you don't really need immediate access. You will need access to power so take that into consideration.
In a central location Access to a power plug The technician should be able to help you with location, but you should know what you want too. Put thought into a strong password You may need to think up a password for your security settings. Think of this in advance. The best passwords won't be easy to guess, but they will be something you can remember. Alpha-numeric passwords (letters and numbers) are best. Since you don't know how long it will have to be, just having an idea will make any adjustments easier to make. A word of caution, some of the most common passwords people use are - password, 123456, qwerty, abc123, letmein, or (your first name). Don't use these. Don't. Other Things to Consider  There are a couple things to consider; the equipment, and the installation of the equipment. If you don't already have internet you will need a modem to accept the internet into your house, and a wireless router to send the signal to your computer(s). You may also need adaptors if your computers aren't wireless ready. Will your internet provider provide the equipment? If you already have internet and are upgrading to wireless, does your internet provider have a router? How much? How is it billed? In my area the equipment is supplied by the internet provider, and it's often free. From what I remember my modem was free but the wireless router (when I upgraded to wireless) was billed to my account. Is the equipment compatible with your computer? You may need to read up on the specific router (and adaptor if using one) to be sure it will all work together. If it is the provider doing the install, will they bill you on your regular monthly statement or will you have to pay when it's installed? If you are using a third party installer, will they bill you? Accept checks? Credit cards? Home wireless internet installation costs vary depending on where you live and the availability of high speed internet. More often than not the provider who supplies you the internet will have technicians they can send for setup, for a fee. In some cases it can be as long as several days before anyone can show up to install. Also, you might not get a specific time for your appointment, but a time range. For example, they might say they will arrive on Friday between 11am and 3pm and someone will have to be there waiting for them. Something else to consider. Don't overlook the recommendations of friends who have had home wireless internet installed. Ask around and do your homework. How Much To Install?  In my area (West Michigan) prices range from $99.99 for a consultation to $149.99 for the actual install. All prices are subject to availability and change at any time. Geek Squad (Best Buy) Wireless Network Setup $149.99 Set up and install your wireless network with 2 devices, such as a PC and shared printer Geek Squad (Best Buy) Technology Consultation $99.99 Have a Geek Squad Agent survey your current devices, make recommendations and design a solution AT&T ConnecTech (AT&T) Worry-Free Wireless Home Networking [basic] $119 "Wireless network setup by our expert technicians to connect up to two computers or devices, and arrange printer and file sharing, and security encyrption up to help prevent intruders." AT&T ConnecTech (AT&T) Worry-Free Wireless Home Networking [deluxe] $149 "Wireless network setup by our technician with up to four computers or devices, file and printer sharing, and provide a security audit and encryption set up to help prevent intruders." i-team (CompUSA) Network Setup $109.99 You provide the equipment and they do installation including up to 2 devices, setup passwords, test network, and show you how it works. CompUSA will also sell you the equipment if needed. You might also find independent home wireless internet installers in the phone book or through friends. Always understand in advance what you are getting, how much it will cost, and know the reputation of your installer. * All offers are subject to availability. Prices may vary. Additional term and conditions apply. Prices based on a search for home wireless internet installation in the 49548 zip code. Did you find this information useful? Contact me with your questions, comments, and suggestions! Home < Wireless Internet Providers < Home Wireless Internet < You Are Here  New! CommentsHave your say about what you just read!Leave me a comment in the box below. |
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