help connect my windows xp to wireless signal

[bettjnf]

On my main computer which uses vista i have a modem and a router set up and it runs perfectly. My ipod also uses this connection. But, downstairs  I have a windows xp. I know the connection goes that far because my ipod and laptop both work right there. However, the desktop computer doesn't detect the connection, it only has options for dial up, broadband, and LAN. In the control panel under network connections there is no wireless connection button or anything of that sort.
Do I need a wireless USB router thing? Or what?

 

[Geek-9pm]

... control panel under network connections there is no wireless connection button or anything of that sort.
Do I need a wireless USB router thing? Or what?

 

Yes
Wireless USB adapter - Netgear
Or Belkin, D-link or Tri-dent are also OK.

[Quantos]

You could always drill a hole and run a wire.  The signal will have less latency and more security.

[jason2074]

Do I need a wireless USB router thing? Or what?

I'm just curious to why you post desktop and you are mentioning cannot connect to wireless... Did it connected wirelessly before or is your desktop or mobo with an WNIC that might not yet be configured or installed properly? You could look at your Device Manager and expand network adapter to confirm this. Otherwise if nothing is installed then you could follow Geek-9PM, Quantos suggestions.

[Geek-9pm]

Your desktop must already have an Ethernet connection, I'm sure. A 50 foot piece of standard ethernet cable with the connectors already attached will probably cost you about $15 at a local store. You can find it cheaper mail-order, but you have to factor in the cost of shipping it. Then there's the question of drilling the hole. A 3/8 bit should do the job, but you may find that you need to go to a 7/16 in order to pass the cable.

And it has to be an extra long drill bit, about 8 inches or so make sure you get it all the way through the wall. Oh, forgot to mention, you're not going to be only get the hood and connector through even the 7/16 holel. So you have to cut off the connector, then splice it back on again. That would be quite messy unless you have the right tool and another connector.

More tools, more money, more time and more hassle. Still, I prefer the direct cable connection whenever I can, but in our house there is a moratorium on drilling more holes  in the walls. Presently I am using a laptop with a built-in wi-fi connection. Just to go from my den to the laundry room.

[Quantos]

Sigh

Once more you demonstrate your ignorance. 
A standard 5/8" drill bit is used, and pulling wire isn't an issue with a 12" length of bailing wire.

Personally I prefer the labor to have a low latency connection that is far more secure.

[CBMatt]

And it has to be an extra long drill bit, about 8 inches or so make sure you get it all the way through the wall.

According to the OP, the computer is downstairs, so it's not as simple as just putting a small hole in the wall.  We also don't know if this person is renting or living with their parents; they may not even be allowed to do such a thing.  There's also no telling if the computer's modem has an RJ-45 (there's a fair chance that it does, but I'm just saying).  Going with the USB adapter is easier and cheaper.  I agree that a wired connection is better, but if everything else is already wireless, I don't see the harm in adding one more to the list.

[bettjnf]

CBMatt
what is an RJ 45?

[CBMatt]

Well, in simple terms, it is a type of jack that uses an ethernet (broadband) cable.  Take a look at the picture I have attached below.  The jack on the left is a phone jack (RJ11) for dial-up and the one on the right is an RJ45 (notice that it is wider), which is where you would plug in your ethernet cable.  You should have some similar jacks on your router.

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