NetComm NP5400 manual Appendix a Troubleshooting, Frequently Asked Questions, What is Roaming?

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Appendix A: Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to problems usually encountered during the installation and operation of the Access Point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Access Point act as my DHCP Server?

No. The Access Point is nothing more than a wireless hub, and as such cannot be configured to handle DHCP capabilities.

Can I run an application from a remote computer over the wireless network?

This will depend on whether or not the application is designed to be used over a network. Consult the application's user guide to determine if it supports operation over a network.

Can I play multiplayer games with other users of the wireless network?

Yes, as long as the game supports multiple players over a LAN (local area network). Refer to the game's user guide for more information.

What are Ad-hoc and Infrastructure modes?

An Ad-hoc wireless LAN is a group of computers, each with a WLAN adapter, connected as an independent wireless LAN. An Ad-hoc wireless LAN is applicable when no AP is available or you wish to run a private network not joined to the corporate network.

An integrated wireless and wired LAN is called an Infrastructure configuration. Infrastructure is applicable to enterprise scale for wireless access to a wired network via an AP.

What is Roaming?

Roaming is the ability of a portable computer user to communicate continuously while moving freely throughout an area greater than that covered by a single Access Point. Before using the roaming function, the workstation must make sure that it is the same channel number as the Access Point of the dedicated coverage area.

To achieve true seamless connectivity, the wireless LAN must incorporate a number of different functions. Each node and Access Point, for example, must always acknowledge receipt of each message. Each node must maintain contact with the wireless network even when not actually transmitting data. Achieving these functions simultaneously requires a dynamic RF networking technology that links Access Points and nodes. In such a system, the user's end node undertakes a search for the best possible access to the system. First, it evaluates such factors as signal strength and quality, as well as the message load currently being carried by each Access Point and the distance of each Access Point to the wired backbone. Based on that information, the node next selects the right Access Point and registers its address. Communications between end node and host computer can then be transmitted up and down the backbone.

As the user moves on, the end node's RF transmitter regularly checks the system to determine whether it is in touch with the original Access Point or whether it should seek a new one. When a node no longer receives acknowledgment from its original Access Point, it undertakes a new search. Upon finding a new Access Point, it then re-registers, and the communication process continues.

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NP5400 11g Wireless Access Point User Guide

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Contents Page Contents Introduction NetComm 11G 54Mbps Wireless Access PointLAN Features Configuration & ManagementRoaming Planning Your Wireless NetworkNetwork Topology How to Make Your Wireless Network More Secure Back Panel Your NetComm 11G Wireless APLAN Front PanelLED DiagHardware Installation Connecting the Wireless APPackage Contents Rev YML668 NP5400 11g Wireless Access Point User Guide Setting Up TCP/IP in Windows Setting Up the Wireless Access PointConnecting the AP to your Network TCP/IP Setup for Windows 98 and Millennium TCP/IP Setup for Windows Installing the Wireless Navigator Startup and Login Configuring the Access Point Info Tab Access Point InformationAssoc Tab Wireless TabAdvanced Tab Access TabSecurity Tab IP Address Tab Help Tab Admin TabCommands Firmware Upgrade Procedure What is Roaming? Appendix a TroubleshootingFrequently Asked Questions Can the Access Point act as my Dhcp Server?What is Spread Spectrum? What is BSS ID?What is ESSID? What is ISM band?How do I resolve issues with signal loss? What is WEP?What is a MACAddress? How do I reset the Access Point?Dhcp Appendix B GlossaryFirmware S SDynamic IP Address ESSISP IpconfigInfrastructure Network IP AddressSsid OfdmWEP TCPTCP/IP UDPAppendix C Specifications Trademarks and Notices Registering your NetComm ProductWarranty Registration Form Page Limitations of Warranty Product WarrantySpecifications