Internet Service

You don't need a separate provider. YOu will need a wireless router so that she can get WIFI from your PC. The laptop should come with instructions on how to do this, or go to any Best Buy, etc, they will tell you what you need.

Sandy's advice is correct. You can either connect the ethernet cable (blue and looks like a telephone cord on the end) directly into the laptop or use WIFI. You will need to purchase a wireless router if you plan to use it at home. You'll only need a wireless card if she's planning on using it places that don't pick up a free WIFI signal or if she doesn't have the password.

I agree about the parental controls. I'd also make sure you're listed as one of her friends if she's doing something like Facebook to make sure nothing too crazy is going on.

Good luck.

You don't have to get a new Internet service provider. Either have her use an ethernet cable just as you do with your desktop, or you can buy a wireless router. With the wireless router, you run an ethernet cable to the router rather than your desktop, then from the router you can run another ethernet cable to your desktop. Then your daughter would be able to get online with the wireless.

If you buy a router, it will come with instructions. Just ask someone at the store to help you find the right router for you. It should only cost about $40. You shouldn't need anything fancy.

You're getting good advice. We have 3 Dell laptops all with WIFI and 1 desktop.

We have a wireless router and setup through Time Warner Cable and it works great for us. We even have the wireless printer set up which works well for our business.

As for your 13 yr old and a laptop, I will say that our 15 yr old daughter has had her Dell about 4 yrs now. She uses it for her homework as well as social networking. She does have FB but I prefer not to be her "friend" just as she is not my "friend" on my laptop. I do have her signin and password (that's the deal) and I randomly check it to make sure things are on the up and up. You can also check the history on the computer as well.

By now most kids are pretty efficient on the computer. We don't do the spy programs on her and her laptop... we keep lines of communication open and we talk a lot.

You can buy a wireless router that you plug into your internet box. Go to bestbuy and ask the tech's which is the best for your needs. Also call your internet service and see what they have in wireless routers. They may offer you a deal.

You're cheapest route is to buy a simple wireless router since the laptop will most probably come with a wireless ethernet card. You can attach it to you desktop with an ethernet cable and let her go wirelessly. We do that at home. We use the TP Link TL-WR541G extended range and have been very pleased. You can get them for $40-50 dollars online. Then you can just use your existing services.

If you have internet at home, then she doesn't necessarily need wireless.......but most come with it. Is the responsible enough for a laptop? You could just have her connect with a cord.......like you do. She'll need a wireless card, if you go wireless.....make sure you do parental guidance on sites......and just about anyone who carries desktop internet can help you with a router and anything else you need, so if you are using someone already, ask them. Not difficult at all.....just go on the internet and do a search.

If you already have internet service for your desk top, just get a wireless router (got mine for $49 at walmart) and she'll be able to use the lap top anywhere in the house.

Most laptops come with wireless capability. She will be able to connect most anywhere that has wireless available. If you don't have wireless at home she can always connect with the cable - adding wireless to your current connection isn't that difficult. I think your internet provider can guide you through the process or I bet your daughter has a friend - computer savy teen - who can set it up.
Best to you.
K.

Healthy Home Advocate
www.greenshoppersalliance.com