can I switch back and forth between DSL ethernet modem and AirPort ?

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Level 1

5 points

can I switch back and forth between DSL ethernet modem and AirPort ?

I use Earthlink DSL connected direct to my iMac by ethernet cable from my modem and the service is very good . . . ever since I installed Leopard I noticed up in the top menu bar that AirPort is ON and usually shows 4 or 5 names listed and only 2 or 3 have the Lock icon . . . I have to assume AirPort is detecting signals from the apartments above and next to me . . . I do not need a wireless connection but I am curious to see if my iMac will actually join one of those networks so how do I temporarily try that and then go back to my regular wired DSL service ? . . . also, I may start renting out a room in my place and the girl will undoubtedly have either a Windows or hopefully a Mac laptop and will need wireless so I would appreciate advice on the best equipment to buy that both Windows and Mac laptops can connect to wirelessly . . . thanks in advance for any advice

G5 iMac 20" iSight, Mac OS X (10.5.2)

Posted on Apr 9, 2008 6:37 PM

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Answer 1

Apr 9, 2008 6:48 PM in response to BlueMorph

Yes you can. Just unplug your DSL modem and then go to your airport menu and try to connect to one of the networks taht's available there. To switch back, reconnect your DSL modem and connect as you usually do.

Any wireless "802.11x" router (where x is "b","g", or "n") will work for both Macs and PCs. Practically all routers these days are compatible with every platform out there.

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Answer 2

BlueMorph Author

Level 1

5 points

Apr 9, 2008 7:25 PM in response to Topher Kessler

thank you Topher, I will do what you said later tonight . . . I have never used wireless and know nothing about it but I have plenty of time to read router reviews in case I do need one eventually . . . one other question for anyone : since installing Leopard I discovered that Bluetooth is on but I don't need it, is that just a default setting from installing the Mac OS ?

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