Does the Linksys Wireless USB adapter require any software to be installed on the computer?

Question

I was considering buying a Linksys Wireless USB adapter (http://www.linksys.com/servlet/Satellite?c=L_Product_C2&childpagename=US%2FLayout&cid=1134691790190&pagename=Linksys%2FCommon%2FVisitorWrapper&lid=9019039789B12) so I can use my ipod touch at school when I'm in the computer lab, as the school blocks many useful websites like Wikipedia &, of course, Yahoo Answers. But the computers are set up so you can't install any software on the student account, so I was wondering if the wireless USB is a plug & play sort of thing, or if I would need to install any software to use it. And if I do, does anyone have any reasonable alternatives?

Answer 1

Nope, not going to work. ANY sort of network adapter will need to install drivers to work.



And besides, that's a "client adapter". You'll have to config it to act as a hotspot (i.e. "ad hoc network"), which takes even MORE config tricks, to connect to your iPod Touch. Sorry, not going to work.



If the school blocks sites, how is you connect iPod Touch up to it going to bypass any of that? There's a leap in logic here I'm not following.



EDIT: Actually, no, it's a leap of logic on your part. A: School uses Internet Explorer + B: School blocks traffic does NOT = C: I can bypass it with different browser.



The block can be put in at the router level. Indeed, the block usually IS at the router level, so there's nothing for you to bypass locally.



Obviously, the only way for you to find out is to test it, and here's a much easier way to test: why don't you get a USB flash drive, 1 or 2 GB is enough, and load a "portable" version of Firefox or Safari on it? Those are "no install" so as long as you can launch it you're go... and if you can get out we'll see who's right about the block. :)



Why use a complicated bypass solution when a simple one will do?

Answer 2

Your best option for going around the school blocks would either be using a proxy server like www.vtunnel.com or downloading a portable browser like firefox portable (found here:http://portableapps.com/apps/internet/firefox_portable). This portable version can be downloaded at home and installed to a usb device which does not require any extra drivers. The program will never install anything to the desktop, however it does run a little slow since you're running it from a jump drive. Just make sure that you rename the firefox application to something obscure or the else the computer might stop you from opening it.

Answer 3

you dont need software however you would need the drivers and your prolly not going to get those onto the pc.



im not sure i understand where your going with this, are you trying to set up a connection for your ipod? if thats the case then youd most likely be blocked on your ipod the same as you are on the comp. your best bets a proxy.

Answer 4

Yes it is plug and play but without the Information on your network setup at school you may not be able to connect, it would show up as a protected wireless connection. You would have to ask your computer lab teacher to give you permission and get the password and other information to get it to work.