New laptop - how to connect to internet

[ibbydibby]

Am now the proud owner of shiny new laptop, thanks to advice received on other threads.

Have discovered that our modem - a BT Voyager 105 is not compatible with Windows 7. While the BT website lists modems that are compatible, no suggestions given if your modem is on the non-compatible list.

We are keen to go wireless in the future, but probably not yet, will this make a difference to the modem I choose? Do I have to buy modem from BT, or can I go to eg PC world?

Sorry for complete numpty questions, and thanks for any advice anyone can offer.

Assuming that your shiny new laptop has an ethernet port, I would suggest getting a modem with an ethernet port rather than a USB modem. This will minimise the risk of compatibility issues. I would also suggest getting a combined modem/wireless router, so you don't have to add anything on when you go wireless.

Don't buy Belkin or D-Link, I would suggest Netgear or Linksys.

www.amazon.co.uk/Linksys-Cisco-WAG120N-Wireless-N-Router/dp/tech-data/B00318BN54/ref=de_a_smtd
www.amazon.co.uk/Netgear-DGN1000-150Mbps-Wireless-N-Connection/dp/B002WOXYHS/ref=pd_sxp_grid_pt_2_0

Thanks for your suggestions, CAUP (didn't want to shorten your name to Cruel...) After last night's panic, I looked on the BT website, and realised that we would be better off changing our BT Broadband deal. As this includes a Home hub, I presume this will be ok..? Or will I need anything else? I have gone ahead with this deal anyway because it is actually cheaper than the BT deal we have at present. Which is weird.

You should be fine with the home hub.