The wireless device is Linksys (G series I think). The laptop isn't the one with Linux, it's my desktop, but if it helps my laptop is an older model HP. (Can't remember exactly, I'm at work and not looking at my laptop
) My desktop is a custom built machine, no brand name. I am not sure of the card inside, I'll have to look when I get home.
Regarding your second question: /shrug is my only answer. I've always had it hardwired and had the other computers wireless. I still might try this seeing as I was informed the Verizon tech gave me improper directions on setting it up in the first place...asked another techy friend of mine.
Part of my problem is that I'm so new to Linux/Kubuntu that I'm just not used to the interface so I don't even know where to go to trouble shoot things like wireless access. /sigh