Linksys WMP55AG manual Planning Your Wireless Network, Network Topology

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Figure 2-1

Instant Wireless® Series

Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network

Network Topology

A wireless local area network (WLAN) is exactly like a regular local area net- work (LAN), except that each computer in the WLAN uses a wireless device to connect to the network. Computers in a WLAN share the same frequency chan- nel and SSID, which is an identification name for wireless devices.

Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode

Unlike wired networks, wireless networks have two different modes in which they may be set up: infrastructure and ad-hoc. An infrastructure configura- tion is a WLAN and wired LAN communicating to each other through an access point. An ad-hoc configuration is wireless-equipped computers com- municating directly with each other. Choosing between these two modes depends on whether or not the wireless network needs to share data or periph- erals with a wired network or not.

If the computers on the wireless network need to be accessed by a wired network or need to share a peripheral, such as a print- er, with the wired network computers, the wireless network should be set up in infrastructure mode. (See Figure 2-1.) 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 cards, 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 (wired) hardware as well.

Dual-Band Wireless A+G PCI Adapter

If the wireless network is relatively small and needs to share resources only with the other computers on the wireless network, then the ad-hocmode can be used. (See Figure 2-2.) Ad-hoc mode allows computers equipped with wire- less transmitters and receivers to communicate directly with each other, elimi- nating the need for an access point. The drawback of this mode is that, in Ad- Hoc mode, wireless-equipped computers are not able to communicate with computers on a wired network. And, of course, communication between the wireless-equipped computers is limited by the distance and interference direct- ly between them.

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Contents Dual-Band Wireless A+G PCI Adapter Copyright & Trademarks Table of Contents Introduction Dual-Band Wireless A+G PCI AdapterFeatures Network Topology Planning Your Wireless NetworkAd-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode Dual-Band Wireless A+G PCI Adapter’s LEDs Getting to Know the Dual-Band Wireless A+G PCI AdapterHardware Installation OverviewDriver Installation for Windows XP Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration Software Installation for Windows 98, Me, Installation and Configuration for Windows 98, Me,Instant Wireless Series Proceed to the next section, Hardware Installation Link Information Starting the Wlan MonitorSite Survey Wireless Network StatusProfiles Creating a New Profile Instant Wireless Series Instant Wireless Series Frequently Asked Questions Appendix a TroubleshootingCommon Problems and Solutions What is the Ieee 802.11b standard? Appendix B Glossary Instant Wireless Series Instant Wireless Series Instant Wireless Series Environmental Appendix C SpecificationsAppendix E Contact Information Appendix D Warranty InformationCopyright 2003 Linksys, All Rights Reserved

WMP55AG specifications

The Linksys WMP55AG is a versatile network adapter designed to deliver robust wireless connectivity, catering to various user needs in the realm of home and office networking. Launched by Linksys, a revered name in the networking hardware domain, this adapter stands out for its combination of performance, compatibility, and user-friendly features.

One of the main features of the WMP55AG is its ability to operate across multiple wireless standards. It supports 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g protocols, making it a triple-mode solution that ensures compatibility with a wide array of wireless networks. This multi-standard support allows users to connect to virtually any Wi-Fi network, whether it is a legacy system or one utilizing more recent standards.

The WMP55AG is designed for PCI installation, meaning it can easily be integrated into desktop computers, providing a stable and powerful connection. With its internal antenna system, it ensures a strong signal and minimizes interference, which is crucial for maintaining seamless network performance, especially in environments with multiple competing signals.

In terms of speed, the WMP55AG can achieve data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps when operating in the 802.11g mode. This speed is sufficient for most internet browsing, streaming media, and online gaming needs. Moreover, when connected to an 802.11a network, users can benefit from higher throughput, ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications.

Security is another critical aspect of the WMP55AG. It supports the latest Wi-Fi security protocols, including WEP, WPA, and WPA2, ensuring that users have multiple options to protect their wireless networks from unauthorized access.

Its ease of use is complemented by Linksys’ user-friendly setup software, which simplifies the process of installation and configuration. This feature is particularly advantageous for less tech-savvy users who may find the setup of networking devices daunting.

Overall, the Linksys WMP55AG delivers a reliable, flexible, and secure wireless networking solution. Its compatibility with multiple wireless standards, solid performance speeds, built-in security features, and straightforward installation make it an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their desktop wireless connectivity. Whether for home use or office environments, the WMP55AG continues to be a relevant option in the landscape of wireless networking devices.
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