My computer is an HP compaq laptop and I've had it for about a year. We have wireless internet at our house and recently my laptop stopped picking up the signal. It said it could not detec any networks. Only after plugging it directly into our modem does it get a signal which leads me to believe it is the wireless network card. I assume I will need to get a new one in order for my internet to work so what I'm wondering is HOW do I figure out what kind I need, and since it's a laptop do I need to take it to a professional to get it replaced or would it be possible to figure it out myself. I am basically illiterate when it comes to computer hardware so keep that in mind. Please help me, I am going back to school soon and need it for that!

well i suppose some atheros wireless card should be fine.

but also , have you tried to see with any other laptop if the router really gives wireless waves . i mean the wireless that is supposed to upload to your receiver

THE BEST workaround would be to buy a usb external wireless receiver or something like that to not mess around with the inside of your laptop.

Hi,

Those days computers (and laptops included) are not difficult to open.
Obviously, if you are not qualified, you will void its warranty by doing so.
Have a look on HP web site, and from your model you can find detailed instructions with pictures on how to replace the Wifi card.
From my experience I guess it should be an inside Mini-PCI device.

Try getting from the command lspci -v the lines related to your Wifi device, from the info google a little to find out what model you do have. I will recommend you to replace it by an identical model as the one it was shipped with. So you don't have to worry about compatibility.

Regards,

Tshimanga.