I have just purchased a computer with a integrated 10/100 Ethernet and
a 56k PCI Data Fax Modem.  My apt. complex offers free wireless
connection in a certain area of the complex and I would like to see if
I am going to be able to access this from my computer. Do I purchase
the adapter only and see if I can connect.  Do I need both the adapter
and router to connect to an existing wireless account?  If I am unable
to connect to their network can I buy a wirelss antenna to connect to
their network?  Thank you in advance for your answers or comments.

To connect to an already existing wireless network you only need the
NETWORK ADAPTER.

If you were to create your own wireless network you would need the
wireless ROUTER to establish the connection.

In your free wireless network you will be connecting to the complex's
wireless network and thusly their router.

If you feel that an antenna would be a wise purchase you would be best
off speaking to your local computer store and asking specifically for
a wireless card that accepts or can utilise a wireless antenna. (I
have a wireless card for my laptop that has a range extender built
into it) You will also need the connection information from the
administrator of the wireless network in your complex.

I personally have used this network card

http://www.netgear.com/Products/Adapters/SuperGWirelessAdapters/WG511T.aspx?detail=Specifications

in my laptop and I have found it to be super reliable and have a long
range for wireless detection.

Hope this helps.

--Keystroke-ga