You may be about to read the proverbial "Stupid Question"

How do I verify that I do or do not have a wireless card/ADAPTER in my Compaq Desktop? Is there a place where it would be LISTED as a component? There is a wireless setup wizard, and I've gone through it a ways, but can't tell whether the installation halts because of a lack of a wireless modem, or because the wireless network I'm trying to is not picking up signal (or MACHINE not picking up signal)

Specs:
Processor: 2.2GHz Athlon 64 3400+
System memory: 512MB
Hard DRIVE: 160GB
Optical drive: DVD-RW/CD-RW combo
Media: 9-in-1 media card reader
Network: 10/100 NIC
Modem: 56K
Operating system: Windows XP HomeDo you currently have a wired Internet connection with that computer?  Exactly what model is it?It is very rare for a stock pre-made desktop to come with a wireless card. From what you have posted you have a wired network 10/100 adapter built into it. If you want to GO wireless you could by using a PCI wireless card or a USB adapter. If that is the case, I would recommend the PCI card.

What is your goal or the reason for your question?