1 A computer's wireless adapter translates data into a radio signal and transmits it using an antenna. 2  A wireless router receives the signal and decodes it. 3  The router sends the information to the Internet using a physical, wired Ethernet connection.n fact, communication across a wireless network is a lot like two-way radio communication. Here's what happens: 1  A computer's wireless adapter translates data into a radio signal and transmits it using an antenna.