NetComm NP5400 manual What is WEP?, What is a MACAddress?, How do I avoid interference?

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What is WEP?

WEP is Wired Equivalent Privacy, a data privacy mechanism based on a shared-key algorithm, as described in the IEEE 802.11 standard.

What is a MACAddress?

The Media Access Control (MAC) address is a unique number assigned by the manufacturer to any Ethernet networking device, such as a network adapter, that allows the network to identify it at the hardware level. For all practical purposes, this number is usually permanent. Unlike IP addresses, which can change every time a computer logs on to the network, the MAC address of a device stays the same, making it a valuable identifier for the network.

How do I avoid interference?

Using multiple Access Points on the same channel and in close proximity to one another will generate interference. When employing multiple Access Points, be sure to operate each one on a different channel (frequency).

How do I reset the Access Point?

Press the Reset button on the back of the Access Point for about ten seconds. This will reset the unit to its default settings.

How do I resolve issues with signal loss?

There is no way to know the exact range of your wireless network without testing. Every obstacle placed between an Access Point and wireless PC will create signal loss. Leaded glass, metal, concrete floors, water and walls will inhibit the signal and reduce range. Start with your Access Point and your wireless PC in the same room and move it away in small increments to determine the maximum range in your environment.

You may also try using different channels, as this may eliminate interference affecting only one channel. Also, due to FCC regulations, more power may be transmitted, using 802.11a, on channels 52, 56, 60 and 64, than on the lower channels. Lastly, check the Advanced tab of the Web-Based Utility and make sure that FULL is selected in the Transmission Rate field.

Does the Access Point function as a firewall?

No. The Access Point is only a bridge from wired Ethernet to wireless clients.

I have excellent signal strength,but I cannot see my network.

WEP is probably enabled on the Access Point, but not on your wireless adapter (or vice versa). Verify that the same WEP Keys and levels (64 or 128 ) are being used on all nodes on your wireless network. Also we suggest you check for MAC filtering.

What is the maximum number of users the Access Point facilitates?

No more than 65, but this depends on the volume of data and may be less if many users create a large amount of network traffic.

How many channels/frequencies are available with the Access Point?

Using 802.11b or 802.11g, there are eleven available channels, ranging from 1 to 11.

Rev. 1 - YML668

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NP5400 11g Wireless Access Point User Guide

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Contents Page Contents LAN Features NetComm 11G 54Mbps Wireless Access PointConfiguration & Management IntroductionNetwork Topology Planning Your Wireless NetworkRoaming How to Make Your Wireless Network More Secure Back Panel Your NetComm 11G Wireless APLED Front PanelDiag LANPackage Contents Connecting the Wireless APHardware Installation Rev YML668 NP5400 11g Wireless Access Point User Guide Connecting the AP to your Network Setting Up the Wireless Access PointSetting Up TCP/IP in Windows 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 Commands Admin TabHelp Tab Firmware Upgrade Procedure Frequently Asked Questions Appendix a TroubleshootingCan the Access Point act as my Dhcp Server? What is Roaming?What is ESSID? What is BSS ID?What is ISM band? What is Spread Spectrum?What is a MACAddress? What is WEP?How do I reset the Access Point? How do I resolve issues with signal loss?Dhcp Appendix B GlossaryDynamic IP Address S SESS FirmwareInfrastructure Network IpconfigIP Address ISPSsid OfdmTCP/IP TCPUDP WEPAppendix C Specifications Trademarks and Notices Registering your NetComm ProductWarranty Registration Form Page Limitations of Warranty Product WarrantySpecifications