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Wireless Home Network Made Easy by Best Buy; Retailer Helps Consumers Break Free With Wireless Mobility At Home

Posted on: Monday, 16 February 2004, 06:00 CST

Best Buy is helping consumers make the jump to a "networked" home, enabling them to enjoy the convenience of wireless mobility at home. ¶"Many people have heard about setting up a computer network at home - asked about it, maybe even researched it a bit - but it still seems to be an intimidating task," said Wendy Fritz, vice president of computing for Best Buy. "We want to help them make that conversion, so they can connect to the Internet with a laptop from the kitchen table or living-room sofa rather than being chained to a desk in their basement office."

¶ What You Need to Go Wireless

¶ A wireless network requires three components:

¶ -- A high-speed Internet connection

¶ -- A wireless router

¶ -- A desktop card, notebook card or USB adapter, depending on

your computer

¶ Whether it's having the freedom to roam around the home with a single laptop or networking two, three or even five computers, getting a wireless home network is easier than most people think. It starts with having a high-speed Internet connection, commonly referred to as a broadband connection or the "pipe."¶ Next, wireless mobility requires a base station, in the form of a network router, which connects to the pipe. Its primary function is to broadcast and receive radio signals that carry data between the pipe and a PC, whether it's a desktop or a notebook computer. ¶ Finally, a card is inserted in the notebook (or desktop) which sends and receives signals that carry data to and from the router. Some PCs have this card already built-in. Those that don't have it will need to have the wireless networking card installed.

¶ Best Buy Can Help

¶ Best Buy, one of North America's leading computer retailers, offers one-stop shopping for consumers who want to "cut the cords" at home and experience the freedom of wireless mobility. ¶ In February, people have a great opportunity to get their network up and running with deals at Best Buy. The company is offering a wide range of products and services that includes notebook and desktop computers, routers, high-speed Internet services, computer accessories and installation services. During the month, customers can receive great financing options and a $150 mail-in rebate on all notebook computers as well as select computer packages. In addition, customers may be eligible to receive a $75 Best Buy gift card when purchasing from the array of broadband service options offered through the stores. ¶ Moreover, for those who want or require assistance installing their network, Best Buy provides instruction through its knowledgeable in-store associates, who can also help arrange in-home installation. ¶"Our sales associates' focus is on understanding the individual customer's needs and uses when it comes to their home PC," Fritz said. "They'll help educate customers and weave through the variety of products to ensure customers are suited with the right technology, equipment and services."¶ For more advice on a wireless home network or buying the right products and services, go to www.BestBuy.com or call 1-888-BEST-BUY.

¶ About Best Buy Stores

¶ Best Buy Stores, owned and operated by Minneapolis-based Best Buy Co., Inc., is the nation's leading specialty retailer of technology and entertainment products and services. Best Buy was founded in St. Paul, Minn. in 1966. Best Buy Stores reach an estimated 300 million consumers per year through more than 600 retail stores in 48 states and online at BestBuy.com. For more information about Best Buy, visit the virtual pressroom at http://onlinepressroom.net/bestbuy.

¶ About Best Buy Co., Inc.

¶ Minneapolis-based Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY) is North America's leading specialty retailer of consumer electronics, personal computers, entertainment software and appliances. The Company's subsidiaries operate retail stores and/or web sites under the names: Best Buy (BestBuy.com), Future Shop (FutureShop.ca), Geek Squad (GeekSquad.com), and Magnolia Audio Video (Magnoliaav.com). The Company's subsidiaries reach consumers through more than 700 retail stores in the United States and Canada.

¶ NOTE TO MEDIA: Wendy Fritz, vice president of computing for Best Buy, is available for interviews on this topic. Please use contact listed below to arrange interviews.

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