Router
You need a wireless router to convert your modem’s signal to wireless. Your router may use one or several types of Wi-Fi standards. Currently the fastest standard is Wireless-N, with a maximum speed of 100 mbps. Wireless-B and -G networks have a maximum speed of 54 mbps, while Wireless-B clocks in at 11 mbps. These speeds are the highest transfer rates attained in theory. In practice, the speeds are much lower due to hardware limitations.
Network Card
Most modern computers come with a wireless network interface card installed or included on the motherboard. For those that do not come with a card, you can install a NIC in the PCI slot or use a USB wireless network adapter to add wireless capabilities. The wireless network cards use a specific Wi-Fi standard, so you need to match the router’s Wi-Fi standard to the computer’s network card.
Modem
The primary speed limiters in a home network are your modem and Internet service provider. In most cases, your ISP limits the speed of the Internet available through your modem. The speed limits are divided between your uploads and downloads, with the download speed typically ranging much higher. You can’t connect to the Internet faster than your modem allows, so your wireless speed is governed by your Internet package. If you use cable Internet, your bandwidth is affected by other cable Internet subscribers in your local area. Your top speeds may take a nosedive during peak hours due to concurrent users.
Interference
Wireless signal interference in the home can greatly reduce signal strength. Some forms of wireless interference are obvious, such as microwaves, garage door openers and cordless phones. The more physical obstructions between a computer and the wireless router, the harder it is to get good signal strength. Metal objects are especially notorious for this type of interference. If your neighbors are using wireless Internet connections, their routers may cause interference in your signal strength.