Connection 2 laptops and ps3 and a hard drive wireless...?

Question

Hi,

Here is what I am trying to do, I would like to have a "central" storage "box" that can run as a media server for the PS3, and also where the 2 laptops can save and receive files.

So we have the following kit;

1 x Dell laptop (wireless enabled)
1 x HP laptop (wireless enabled)
1 x Playstation 3 (wireless enabled)
1 x BT Home hub (Wireless enabled)

So what do I need to add to this little lot, how much will it cost and how can I do it? - I am not an expert in any way as networking.

Any help gratefully received.

Jim H · Accepted Answer

Get a wireless router that supports a network hard drive.  I know Linksys and Apple each sell them.  The router's disk will show up as a shared disk on the Windows machines.

GTB · Answer

With all the devices capable of wireless networking, it looks like you will need a wireless router.  I presume you want to log into the Internet on the pcs as well.

You plug the WAN port of the router into the ISP's Internet feed.  You then connect via WIRED connection one pc to a LAN port of the router.  You must configure the router and all router configurations must be done via a wired, not a wireless link.

Configure the router's WAN and LAN as directed in the manual.  Make sure you can get the Internet on the wired pc.

Finally then activate the wireless and configure it as the manual states.  Be sure to use encryption, a preshared key, and MAC address validation to keep free loaders off.  Record your preshare key and all the details as you will likely need the info in the future.  Remember to config the wireless access points of each of the devices.

Do not rush through the set up.  It can take 45 minutes to do the wired part and well over an hour to do the wireless part.

Connection 2 laptops and ps3 and a hard drive wireless...?

2 Answers