Wireless networks are helpful because they let you use your computer and connect to the Internet anywhere in your home or office However, most wireless networks use a wireless router, which can be expensive If you have more than one computer, you can set up a wireless network without buying a wireless router and save yourself some money In a traditional wireless network, a wireless router acts as a base station, much like the base station for cordless phones All wireless communications go through the wireless router, allowing nearby computers to connect to the Internet or to each other.