Setting up Wi-Fi distribution using a computer can be divided into two stages. First of all, you need to install the necessary equipment to create an access point on the computer, and then make the necessary settings directly in the operating system itself.
Choosing a Wi-Fi adapter
Unlike laptops, which initially have a built-in wireless access card, computers require the purchase of an additional network card or Wi-Fi adapter. To purchase the device you need, it will be enough to contact the appropriate department of the computer hardware store. Most modern Wi-Fi adapters and network cards allow you to distribute wireless Internet.
When choosing a device, pay attention to its speed characteristics. If you will be using the adapter to share the Internet, you will need a device with a higher data transfer rate (for example, 300 Mbps). It will be important to have an additional antenna that can be connected to the adapter in order to increase the coverage area of the Wi-Fi network. When buying, pay attention to products from well-known brands (for example, TP-Link, ASUS, Zyxel or D-Link).
A more expensive and efficient method for creating an access point from a computer is a Wi-Fi network card. It allows you to convert the signal in the same way as ordinary routers, which are also sold in computer stores.
Sharing the Internet from a computer
As soon as the necessary hardware is installed in the computer (USB port), according to the instructions included with the purchased device, you can start configuring Windows. Go to "Start" - "Control Panel" - "Network and Sharing Center". You can also write the name of the desired menu item in the search bar after clicking the "Start" button.
In the list of offered options, click on the "Connection and Network Setup Wizard" link. In the window that appears, select "Computer-to-computer network settings", and then click "Next". In the "Network name" field, specify an arbitrary name for the created network. In the Security Type section, select WPA2-Personal, and for Security Key, set the password that you will need to enter on another device to access the wireless network.
After specifying the required parameters, click "Next" and click on the "Enable Internet Connection Sharing" button. Then click on the "Close" button and go to the "Change sharing settings" menu on the left side of the "Connection Control Center" window. Highlight the sections "Enable Network Discovery", "Enable File and Printer Sharing" and click "Save Changes." Wi-Fi setup is complete and you can connect to the network using any portable devices.
