Turn A Windows PC Into A Mini Home Wireless Network
Setting up a wireless network in your home doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, you can turn a Windows PC into a WiFi hotspot by using one of a few options of free software if you simply want something quick and easy and aren’t concerned with having a high level of security or more than a few devices connected to the network.
The basic steps for configuring all three software programs are the same: download the program, follow the on-screen instructions, and press “Start.” In order to transmit the WiFi signal rather than receive it, the PC does need to have a wireless card.
On a computer running Windows 7 or a later version, including Windows 8, you can use the free, open-source software program called Virtual Router Plus. It can securely transmit any wired or wireless connection to any WiFi device. Use a password that has at least eight characters.
The application uses WPA2, the most secure encryption method for a wireless network.You might need to adjust the power settings on the computer sending the signal because it is also necessary for it to remain awake and running for the other devices to receive a WiFi signal.
Several applications can be used to build a small wireless network for your home.
Another free program that can send wired and wireless signals is called Connectify. If your router isn’t strong enough to reach every area of your house, you can even use it to strengthen your WiFi signal there. In the pro version of Connectify, you can drag and drop files that you want to share with every device on the network and transmit 3G/4G signals. Even without an active Internet connection, you can transfer files between devices.
The pro version additionally enables network customization, enabling you to restrict the amount of bandwidth that each device receives. On computers running Windows XP and later, including Windows 8, Connectify is usable.
Another free program to build a small wireless network inside your home is Virtual WiFi Router. On computers running Windows Vista and later, including Windows 8, this program can be used. Additionally, it has a screen that shows you who is utilizing the network you set up.
All three programs are fairly simple to set up, but if you follow the instructions and your chosen program isn’t working for you or you’d prefer to use a router to create a more reliable and secure network, you might want to consider seeking assistance from a computer tech support company that provides home wireless network support.