Linksys WAP51AB manual Instant Wireless Series

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Instant Wireless™ Series

Network - A system that transmits any combination of voice, video and/or data between users.

Node - A network junction or connection point, typically a computer or work station.

OFDM - OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Muliplexing) works by breaking one high-speed data stream into a number of lower-speed data streams, which are then transmitted in parallel. Each lower speed stream is used to modulate a subcarrier. Essentially, this creates a multi-carrier transmission by dividing a wide frequency band or channel into a number of narrower fre- quency bands or sub-channels.

Packet - A unit of data routed between an origin and a destination in a network.

Passphrase - Used much like a password, a passphrase simplifies the WEP encryption process by automatically generating the WEP encryption keys for Linksys products.

PC Card - A credit-card sized removable module that contains memory, I/O, or a hard disk.

Port - A pathway into and out of the computer or a network device such as a switch or router. For example, the serial and parallel ports on a personal com- puter are external sockets for plugging in communications lines, modems and printers.

RJ-45(Registered Jack-45) - A connector similar to a telephone connector that holds up to eight wires, used for connecting Ethernet devices.

Roaming - The ability to use a wireless device and be able to move from one access point's range to another without losing the connection.

Router - Protocol-dependent device that connects subnetworks together. Routers are useful in breaking down a very large network into smaller subnet- works; they introduce longer delays and typically have much lower throughput rates than bridges.

RTS (Request To Send) - An RS-232 signal sent from the transmitting station to the receiving station requesting permission to transmit.

Dual-Band Wireless Access Point

Server - Any computer whose function in a network is to provide user access to files, printing, communications, and other services.

Software - Instructions for the computer. A series of instructions that performs a particular task is called a "program." The two major categories of software are "system software" and "application software." System software is made up of control programs such as the operating system and database management sys- tem (DBMS). Application software is any program that processes data for the user.

A common misconception is that software is data. It is not. Software tells the hardware how to process the data.

SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) - Market segment of professionals who work at home or in small offices.

Spread Spectrum - Spread Spectrum technology is a wideband radio frequen- cy technique developed by the military for use in reliable, secure, mission-crit- ical communications systems. It is designed to trade off bandwidth efficiency for reliability, integrity, and security. In other words, more bandwidth is con- sumed than in the case of narrowband transmission, but the trade off produces a signal that is, in effect, louder and thus easier to detect, provided that the receiver knows the parameters of the spread-spectrum signal being broadcast. If a receiver is not tuned to the right frequency, a spread-spectrum signal looks like background noise. There are two main alternatives, Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) and Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS).

Static IP Address - A permanent IP address that is assigned to a node in an IP or a TCP/IP network.

Subnet Mask - The method used for splitting IP networks into a series of sub- groups, or subnets. The mask is a binary pattern that is matched up with the IP address to turn part of the host ID address field into a field for subnets.

Switch - 1. A data switch connects computing devices to host computers, allowing a large number of devices to share a limited number of ports. 2. A device for making, breaking, or changing the connections in an electrical cir- cuit.

TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) - A method (protocol) used along with the Internet Protocol (Internet Protocol) to send data in the form of message units between computers over the Internet. While IP takes care of handling the

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Contents Dual-Band Wireless Access Point Copyright & Trademarks Table of Contents IntroductionPlanning Your Wireless Network Package ContentsSystem Requirements Network TopologyDual-Band Wireless Access Point’s Back Panel PowerPower Switch Reset ButtonSetting Up the Dual- Band Wireless Access Point Instant WirelessTM Series Dual-Band Wireless Access Point Instant WirelessTM Series Instant WirelessTM Series Instant Wireless Series Configuring the Dual- Band Wireless Access Point Setup TabSetting WEP Encryption Password Tab Status TabHelp Tab Filter TabWireless Tab Appendix a Troubleshooting Frequently Asked QuestionsCan the Access Point act as my Dhcp Server? What Ieee 802.11a features are supported?What is Ad-hoc? What is Infrastructure?What is Roaming? What is BSS ID?What is WEP? What is a MAC Address?How do I reset the Access Point? How do I resolve issues with signal loss?Setting Up TCP/IP in Windows TCP/IP Setup for Windows 95, 98, and MillenniumIPX Setup for Windows 95, 98, and Millennium Select Specify an IP AddressTCP/IP Setup for Windows NT IPX Setup for Windows NTTCP/IP Setup for Windows IPX Setup for WindowsTCP/IP Setup for Windows XP Appendix C GlossaryDouble click the Network and Internet Connections icon Instant WirelessTM Series Instant WirelessTM Series Instant Wireless Series Appendix D Specifications Appendix E Warranty Information EnvironmentalTechnical Support RMA Issues Fax Appendix F Contact InformationSales Information Web FTP SiteCopyright 2002 Linksys, All Rights Reserved

WAP51AB specifications

Linksys WAP51AB is a Wireless Access Point designed to provide high-speed wireless connectivity for both home and office environments. With its dual-band capabilities, it operates efficiently on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, ensuring a stable connection for various applications, including streaming, video conferencing, and online gaming.

One of the standout features of the WAP51AB is its robust support for the latest wireless standards, including 802.11a/b/g. This versatility allows it to connect with a wide range of devices, from older wireless gadgets to the latest smartphones and laptops. Additionally, the access point enables simultaneous dual-band broadcasting, which helps to reduce congestion and improve the overall wireless experience.

The WAP51AB boasts advanced security features to protect users' data and privacy. It supports WPA2 encryption, ensuring robust security for wireless networks. The access point also offers MAC address filtering, which adds an additional layer of control over which devices can connect to the network, thereby enhancing security.

A key characteristic of the WAP51AB is its ease of setup and management. With the Linksys web-based configuration interface, users can quickly set up their network settings, manage bandwidth, and monitor connected devices with minimal hassle. This user-friendly interface simplifies the process for both novice and experienced users alike.

In terms of physical characteristics, the WAP51AB features a sleek, compact design that allows for easy mounting on walls or ceilings, making it an ideal choice for various deployment scenarios. The external antennas enhance wireless coverage, providing a reliable signal across larger areas, which is particularly useful in environments such as schools, warehouses, or multi-story buildings.

The Linksys WAP51AB also supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), enabling flexible placement options without the need for additional power sources. This feature is particularly advantageous in commercial settings where power outlets may be limited.

In summary, the Linksys WAP51AB stands out for its dual-band support, robust security features, user-friendly setup, and flexible installation options, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their wireless networking capabilities. Whether for home use or in a business environment, this access point delivers reliable performance and comprehensive coverage to meet diverse connectivity needs.