USAFRet :
Curioustinkerer :
I have a Gateway desktop computer from 2000 that runs Windows Milennium Edition. I want to connect it to the Internet, but it does not have an ethernet jack, and it obviously does not have wifi. What should I do? Thanks.
Buy a USB ethernet adapter
Install Linux
Say bye bye to WinMe forever.
It will still be slow, but it might almost sort of work.
THIS or something like it.
1) USB wi-fi stick, or PCI/PCIe ethernet adapter (if you have easy access to ethernet cable go that way
a) PCIe (not PCI) ethernet adapter->
https://ca.pcpartpicker.com/product/dQmLrH/tp-link-wired-network-card-tg3468
or
b) USB wi-fi->
https://ca.pcpartpicker.com/product/4rNp99/rosewill-wireless-network-card-rnxn150ube
2) Windows or Linux?
I doubt Windows 10 is compatible with the CPU, and I also can't recommend ME. Too many issues.
(If W10 is compatible it might be worth considering getting a DVD and installing)
If you need basic browser and office (i.e. LibreOffice works great) then Linux Mint is a good option:
https://www.linuxmint.com/
**WARNING**
Linux drivers will have issues with some networking devices. In general, the ETHERNET (wired) devices should be fine but double check. If you want wi-fi you'll need to google compatibility with the exact model.
3) SETUP (example)
a) go to Linux Mint (or similar)
b) download the ISO and burn a DVD
(Use 64-bit only if the CPU is compatible. Otherwise use 32-bit. If in doubt, use 32-bit such as the Cinnamon version in the download above for Mint)
c) boot to Linux DVD, use the option to DELETE and auto setup on the hard drive
d) Finish, test etc.
4) *Uh, no dude I just want ME->
Then I suggest getting the ETHERNET PCI or PCIe card. That's probably going to work without any hassle. Install, attach cable, bootup and it should work.
ME is likely to have issues though. Don't use it for anything where you put in Credit Card or critical data.