I HAAAAAVE A AT@T WESTELL MODEN BUT MY COMPUTER IS
Let me clear up a little confusion. You don't have wi-fi on your account, you have Internet access. Wi-fi is not something that you subscribe to or purchase separately. Wi-fi (wireless) access is provided by a router that allows the Internet connection you pay for to be shared by several computers. The typical router has both wired connections (usually 4 of them) for computers that don't have wireless capability, and acts as the access point for your wireless network.
Your modem is the device that connects you to the Internet through your service provider (ISP). Most ISPs are supplying a combination modem/router for their customers since so many people want wireless access in their homes. If you have one of these, you actually have wireless capability already. But your modem might be an older type, supplying a single wired connection for one computer only. You didn't give the model number of your Westell modem so I can't tell you what you have, but you can tell by looking at it.
A single-connection DSL modem will have only two ports. One is the connection to the DSL phone line, and is a standard-size phone jack labeled "DSL". The other is the network cable connection to your computer, usually labeled "COMPUTER", "LAN" (short for Local Area Network), or "ETHERNET" which is the type of cable used. If this describes your modem, you will need to provide your own wireless router to make your new wireless netbook work.
On the other hand, a combination modem/router will have the DSL connection jack and 4 connectors for computers. It may also have an antenna for the wireless function, but some newer models have internal antennas. If you have one of these, you already have wi-fi capability. You will probably need to set up your network so that your netbook can use it.
There is plenty of information available about how to install a wireless router if you don't have one already. In fact, almost every one now comes with an installation CD that will guide you through all the steps. They aren't expensive and are for sale almost everywhere that sells electronics (office places, Radio Shack, retailers like Wal-Mart, etc.). If you already have the combination device, you can call your ISP customer service for help in setting up your network, or find the information on their website.
So yes, the Sylvania netbook will work in your home, although you may need to do a little work first. But it's really pretty simple, and you'll have that computer online without wires in no time.