How does a home built computer connect to the Internet?

[TomGle]

I am finding part for my first computer, but I'm not sure how it will connect to the internet. On the specifications for the motherboard there is something about a LAN chipset, but I'm not sure what that means. How do I make sure the build will be able to connect to the internet, either through Ethernet or wirelessly?

 

[alexoiu]

Boards have a LAN controller. Some come with a wifi adapter too.
After installing Windows, you should be able to use the Internet.

 

[jsmithepa]

LAN = ethernet. (not technically but urban speaking, same thing)

 

[TomGle]

Boards have a LAN controller. Some come with a wifi adapter too.
After installing Windows, you should be able to use the Internet.

So without a wifi adapter I'd have to use an Ethernet cable? If so, does this motherboard have a wifi adapter: MSI Z97S SLI Krait Edition LGA 1150 Intel Z97 HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 ATX Intel Motherboard http://www.newegg.com/global/pl/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813130801&cm_re=z97-a-_-13-130-801-_-Product

It doesn't say in the specs, but I may have overlooked something.
Thanks

 

[bill001g]

You can add a wifi adapter to any computer it is either a card that plug into a slot or a USB connected device. Depends which you like better.

I would use a ethernet cable and only use wireless if you have no other option. You will get much better and consistant performance from ethernet and its not like you carrying your desktop machine around the house where portability is a advantage.

 

[TomGle]

You can add a wifi adapter to any computer it is either a card that plug into a slot or a USB connected device. Depends which you like better.

I would use a ethernet cable and only use wireless if you have no other option. You will get much better and consistant performance from ethernet and its not like you carrying your desktop machine around the house where portability is a advantage.

Thanks! That helps a lot.