OT: Got a new computer, need some advise..., file transfer with router or cable, ext hard drive Options

[neo914-6]

Just got a Dell Inspiron 530S with Duo Core processor.

Spoke to Dell Tech Support and they say I can transfer XP files from my old computer to Vista with a wireless router. What should I shop for, there's alot of routers? Are they priced for speed limits and what should I get at a minimum? Can you do it with a cable?

I also have files from a PC with Win98 that I'd like to transfer. I'm told this isn't possible to Vista with a router. I've burned some CD's but it's a really slow process. It won't recognise my thumb drive.

They say I should also get a external hard drive to store files and keep less on the computer (better performance) and to avoid losing data in a crash or corruption. I have a 220GB internal drive, how much should I keep "free"?

Page loading seem slow, I expected much faster speed. I currently have 2GB and can expand another 1GB so Dell TS sold me a 512MB memory upgrade. Is page loading limited by ISP or memory? My ISP (SBC) has a faster DSL upgrade.

[Gustl]

for the file transfer - why don't you take a cross-over cable?
you could configer a peer-to-peer network within 30 sec and a TCP/IP network protocoll is available on every Windows OS since Win95
just set up a file share - that takes you 10 sec - and than copy the files with 100 Mbit/s
that seems to be the cheapest and easiest way ...

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/bye1.gif) Gustl

[cooltimes]

I hope this falls within the rhealm of Felix's questions. If not, I apologize for taking the thread out of his focus on doing his new system.
What is a cross over cable?
Can you explain the process you mentioned here?
Sure would be a BIG help to some dummies like me since I am in the process of putting my 500GB USB files on DVD and each DVD (4.3GB) is taking wellover an hour using Nero. My purpose is to format the USB HD so it isn't running both Windows and UNIX (Ubuntu).
Is formatting is the only way I can remove a dual system since Unix doesn't appear to have a process I understand clearly to remove one and not the other system.
Thanks.
Cooltimes

for the file transfer - why don't you take a cross-over cable?
you could configer a peer-to-peer network within 30 sec and a TCP/IP network protocoll is available on every Windows OS since Win95
just set up a file share - that takes you 10 sec - and than copy the files with 100 Mbit/s
that seems to be the cheapest and easiest way ...

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/bye1.gif) Gustl