Ad-hoc versus Infrastructure Mode

Figure A-1

Instant WirelessTM Series

Unlike wired networks, wireless networks have two different modes in which they may be set up: Infrastructure and Ad-hoc. Choosing between these two modes depends on whether or not the wireless network needs to share data or peripherals with a wired network or not.

If the computers on the wireless network need to be accessible by a wired network or need to share a peripheral, such as a printer, with the wired network computers, the wireless network should be set up in the Infrastructure mode, as shown in Figure A-1. The basis of Infrastructure mode centers around an access point, which serves as the main point of communications in a wireless network. Access points transmit data to PCs equipped with wireless network card, which can roam within a certain

radial range of the

access point.

Multiple access points can be arranged to work in succession to extend the roaming range, and can be set up to communicate with your Ethernet hard- ware as well.

If the wireless network is relatively small and needs to share resources only with the other computers on the wireless network, then the Ad-hoc mode can be used, as shown in Figure A-2. Ad-hoc mode allows computers equipped with wireless transmitters and receivers to communicate directly with each other, eliminating the need for an access point. The drawback of the Ad-hoc mode is that wireless-equipped computers are not able to communicate with computers on a wired network. In addition, communication between the wire-

less-equipped com- puters is limited by the distance and interfer- ence directly between them.

Figure A-2

Wireless Presentation Gateway

Appendix B: Upgrading the

Wireless Presentation Gateway’s

Firmware

The Wireless Presentation Gateway functions with the use of firmware, pro- gramming written in the unit’s internal memory. It is this firmware that enables the Wireless Presentation Gateway to function with the Player and makes it easy to use.

Occasionally, this firmware will be upgraded, which could increase the Wireless Presentation Gateway’s stability or make it easier to use. New versions of the firmware can be found on the Linksys web site at www.linksys.com.

To upgrade this firmware, download it from the website and then double-click the file wherever it has been saved. You will be walked through instructions on how to upgrade the firmware.