If you haven’t used a wireless connection before, you probably have a few questions about what it is and how it works. Here are the answers to some of the questions we get asked most often.
What is the range of the wireless router?
In most cases, the range of a wireless router is about 30 metres (100 ft.). However, there are a few factors that can affect the range of your router, like the thickness of your walls, or any nearby electrical equipment like mobile phones, fax machines, microwaves and so on.
Where should I put my router?
The Internet signal is strongest at the main telephone socket in your home, so we normally recommend that you keep your router close to the socket. If you are having problems with the wireless strength between the router and your computer, you might get a better signal by moving your router somewhere else. There isn’t a particular place we can recommend - just experiment, and see what works best for you!
Keep in mind that the router should be kept somewhere dry, with good ventilation so that it doesn’t overheat.
How many computers can I connect using the wireless router?
You can connect up to 10 computers wirelessly, or up to 4 digital devices (games consoles, printers, etc) to the 4 Ethernet ports on the back of the wireless router, using Ethernet cables.
Remember, the more devices you connect to your wireless router the more your broadband speed will be affected. This is because the wireless router is using the same broadband connection to connect all those computers and devices.
How can I stop other people connecting to my router without permission?
Wireless connections are different to wired ones because neighbours or passers-by within range of your router can, accidentally or deliberately, get free Internet access from it. The way to protect your wireless connection is to use encryption, which makes sure that the only wireless devices that can connect to your wireless router are the ones that you’ve authorised. Encryption uses a password (also called a security key), that must be entered by a computer user before they connect to your router. You are asked to set up this password when you install your router.
Should I use a wireless or a wired connection?
Wireless has the obvious advantage of not requiring wires between devices, so it allows you to connect to the Internet from anywhere in your house, as long as you are within range of the router. That means you’re not tripping over trailing wires, and you can wander around with your laptop as much as you like.
If your main computer is close to the router, it might be simpler to use a wired connection – you can use the yellow Ethernet cable that came with your broadband package. Ethernet connections don’t require encryption, and they’re usually faster than wireless connections. Also, if your computer already has an available Ethernet port, you do not need any extra hardware.
I have anti-virus software installed on my computer. Will I need to uninstall it to use wireless broadband?
Some anti-virus programs might block access to Wireless Manager (the software that helps you set-up and manage your wireless network) which can mean that your network can’t be set up or won’t work properly. You might need to temporarily disable your anti-virus program to set-up your wireless network – but don’t forget to re-enable it afterwards!
We recommend that you "allow" or "permit" access to Wireless Manager when you’re prompted by your anti-virus program.
Is Virgin Media PCguard compatible with wireless broadband?
Yes, PCguard is fully compatible with wireless broadband, so there’s is no need to make any changes to it.
Need more information on Virgin Media wireless?
Click on one of the links below to set up or add to your wireless network.
- Set up your wireless router.
- Change the wireless network password (also known as the Security Key).
- Connect a new or upgraded computer to the router.
