The bigger the antenna.. the better the connection/power.
I have a Syntax USB-400 ... WUSB dongle.
It works ok. I can get a signal (low) out in the garage about 60 ft away.
You can get one for free
here
after MIR.
WEP Encryption on Wireless B.
most are PNP.. comes with drivers tho.
range... see antenna above.
backwards compatible... yes.
depends on how far you are from the router as to how stable/good the connection is
you need a wirless router or wireless access point to use them.. ( I think).. maybe if ICS is setup on the main computer?
might be able to share dialup using ICS... not sure.. DSL here..