Glossary

Access Point An internetworking device that seamlessly connects wired and wireless networks. Access Points combined with a distributed system support the creation of multiple radio cells that enable roaming throughout a facility.

Ad Hoc Network A network composed solely of stations within mutual communication range of each other (no Access Point connected). The Ad Hoc network offers peer-to-peer connections between workstations, allowing communication between computers within range that have an 802.11

DSSS compatible PC card installed.

Channel A medium used to pass data units that can be used simultaneously in the same volume of space by other channels of the same physical layer, with an acceptably low frame error ratio due to the absence of mutual interference.

Encapsulated An Ethernet address mode that treats the entire Ethernet packet as a whole and places it inside an 802.11 frame along with a new header.

Ethernet The most widely used medium access method, which is defined by the IEEE 802.3 standard. Ethernet is normally a shared media LAN; i.e., all the devices on the network segment share the total bandwidth. Ethernet networks operate at 10Mbps/100Mbps using CSMA/CD to run over 10BaseT/100BaseT cables.

IEEE 802.11 The IEEE 802.xx is a set of specifications for LANs from the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE). Most wired networks conform to 802.3, the specification for CSMA/CD-based Ethernet networks or 802.5, the specification for token ring networks. 802.11 defines the standard for wireless LANs encompassing three incompatible (non-interoperable) technologies: Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS), Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS), and Infrared. IEEE standards ensure interoperability between systems of the same type.

Infrastructure Network A wireless network centered about an Access Point. In this environment, the Access Point not only provides communication with the wired network but also mediates wireless network traffic in the immediate neighborhood.

IP Internet Protocol. The standard protocol within TCP/IP that defines the basic unit of information passed across an Internet connection by breaking down data messages into packets, routing and transporting the packets over network connections, then reassembling the packets at their destination. IP corresponds to the network layer in the ISO/OSI model.

LAN Local Area Network. A communication network that serves users within a defined geographical area. The benefits include the sharing of Internet access, files, and equipment, such as printers and storage devices. Special network cabling (10BaseT) is often used to connect the PCs together.

RS232 An EIA standard for serial data communication between equipment and computing devices.

SSID Service Set ID. A group name shared by every member of a wireless network.

Station The Station is the component that connects a host computer or device to the wireless medium. It may be referred to as the Wireless Network Adapter or the Wireless Network Interface Card.

WEP Wired Equivalent Privacy. The optional cryptographic confidentiality algorithm specified by

802.11used to provide data confidentiality that is subjectively equivalent to the confidentiality of a wired LAN medium that does not employ cryptographic techniques to enhance privacy.