Instant WirelessTM Series

•Authentication Type. You may choose between Open System, Shared Key, and Both. The Authentication Type default is set to Open System, in which the sender and the recipient do NOT share a secret key. Each party generates its own key-pair and asks the receiver to accept the randomly- generated key. Once accepted, this key is used for a short time only. Then a new key is generated and agreed upon. Even if this secret key is discov- ered, only a small amount of data may be deciphered. Shared Key is when both the sender and the recipient share a secret key. They use this key for an extended length of time, sometimes indefinitely. Any eavesdropper who discovers the key may decipher all packets until the key is changed.

•Preamble Type. The preamble defines the length of the CRC block for communication between the Wireless Network Access Point and the roam- ing Network Card. Verify that you have selected the apropriate preamble type and click the Apply button to set it.

•Basic Rates. The basic transfer rates should be set depending on the speed of your wireless network. Verify that you’ve set the correct basic rate for your wireless network and click the Apply button to set it.

•Antenna Diversity. These two settings determine whether either or both antennas will be used to transmit or receive. The default setting, Both, means that the antennas are set to both Transmit and Receive, which is the recommended setting.

•Auto Rate Fall Back setting should be checked to make your wireless net- work flexible to roaming wireless devices. As wireless devices move away from the Wireless Network Access Point, the transfer rate will automatical- ly fall back to the most optimum rate allowed.

Wireless Network Access Point

•Operational Mode by default is set to Access Point. This is for connecting your wireless PCs to a wired network. In most cases, no change is necessary to this default setting.

If you are trying to make a wireless con- nection between two wired networks, select Wireless Bridge. If you are connecting to

another Wireless Bridge, select Point to Point and enter in the apropriate Remote MAC Address (this address must be iden- tical to the other Access Point’s MAC address).

Note: In Wireless Bridge mode, the WAP11 can ONLY be accessed by another wireless bridge. In order for your other wireless devices to access the WAP11, you must reset it to Access Point mode. The two modes are mutually exclusive.

If you plan on connecting to multiple client Access Points, you must select Point to MultiPoint. Click OK after you have made your selection.

Click the Apply button to store the information, then click the Yes button to accept the changes in the dialog box that appears.

WAP11 specifications

The Linksys WAP11 is a versatile and influential device in the realm of wireless networking. Released in the early 2000s, this wireless access point was designed to offer seamless connectivity for users who required reliable internet access without the constraints of wired connections. The WAP11 quickly became popular for home and office environments, allowing multiple devices to connect to the internet wirelessly.

One of the standout features of the Linksys WAP11 is its compliance with the IEEE 802.11b wireless networking standard. This standard enabled the WAP11 to deliver a maximum data transfer rate of up to 11 Mbps, which was impressive at the time of its launch. It also supported backward compatibility with 802.11g devices, enabling a broader range of connectivity options for users.

The WAP11 utilizes both infrastructure and ad-hoc modes, catering to various networking setups. The infrastructure mode allows for connection through a wireless router or switch, while the ad-hoc mode facilitates a peer-to-peer connection among multiple devices. This flexibility makes the WAP11 suitable for both small home networks and larger office settings.

Another notable characteristic of the WAP11 is its range and coverage capability. The device operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency and is designed to provide coverage in a typical home or small office. When deployed in an environment with minimal obstacles, the WAP11 offers a considerable range, ensuring that users can connect from various locations within the premises.

Security features are also a significant aspect of the WAP11. It supports Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption, providing a basic level of security to protect data transmitted across the wireless network. While WEP has since been superseded by more robust security protocols like WPA and WPA2, it was a necessary feature for its time, giving users peace of mind regarding their data protection.

Installation and setup of the Linksys WAP11 are user-friendly, making it accessible even for individuals with minimal technical experience. The device comes with a web-based interface that allows users to configure settings, adjust security parameters, and troubleshoot network issues with ease.

In summary, the Linksys WAP11 is a remarkable wireless access point that laid the groundwork for the wireless networking standards we now take for granted. With its support for 802.11b, flexible operating modes, decent range, and user-friendly configuration, the WAP11 provided a reliable solution for expanding wireless connectivity. Its influence can be seen in the ongoing evolution of wireless networking technologies, emphasizing the importance of connectivity in our increasingly digital world.