All one may need to do to get set up in the world of wireless networking, and enable WLAN, is to get a wireless network card and install it into a computer. Assuming that a wireless local area network connection exists which you are authorized to use, then the wireless card will allow you to receive the signal being sent out by the router. This wireless hub will control the Ethernet connection which will carry the packets of information, allowing you to connect to the network and have access to the internet connection. Any number of stations can be added to a single network connection as long as they are in range of the signal. This is a big advantage over a wired LAN where access is needed to access points in order to connect. With wireless local area networks, the access points are the laptops and stations with a wireless network card within them. Once the card has been installed, then you simply need to enable WLAN accessibility and away you go. The card should automatically detect any networks within range and a simple click will let you get onto the network. It is more than likely that your connection should be protected by passwords, but the network administrator will be able to provide you with these. If this is used in a home scenario, you will have the change to use a strong password of your own to protect your connection. Even though it is still a local area connection, the wireless broadcast range could reach outside of your building. When you enable WLAN, you instantly add a great deal of mobility to your computing experience. In the home environment, you may sit on the couch and stream a movie, or move the laptop to the kitchen to watch a video recipe so that you can prepare a nice dinner. Later in the evening you can take the laptop to the bedroom and stream some soothing music over and internet radio channel. All this connectivity will come from just one connection, and if you have other stations in the house, they can happily be operated at the same time without any interference to your own pleasure. Without the wires of a LAN, you have the freedom to connect anywhere within your range. Install a card, enable WLAN and you can enjoy all of the benefits that this wireless technology brings. You can surf the internet anywhere, you can make VOIP telephone calls over the internet, and can share files among the other computers on the network. Always make sure that your own system is well protected with firewalls and encryption protocols, as well as strong passwords, and you should be able to enjoy the freedom of connection that WLAN brings.