Internet and online security - 73

Network connections

A LAN (Local Area Network) is a group of computers (for example, within an office building or home) that share a common communications line and resources. When you set up a network, you can share files, peripheral devices (such as a printer) and an Internet connection. You can set up a LAN using wired technologies (such as Ethernet) or wireless technologies (such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth).

Wireless networks

A wireless LAN or WLAN is a wireless local area network, which may link two or more computers without using wires. Setting up a wireless network is easy and allows you to share files, peripheral devices and an Internet connection.

What are benefits of a wireless network?

Mobility

Wireless LAN systems allow you and other users of your home network to share access to files and devices connected to the network, for example a printer or scanner.

Also you can share an internet connection with other computers in your home.

Installation speed and simplicity

Installing a wireless LAN system can be fast and easy and eliminates the need to pull cables through walls and ceilings.

Components of a wireless LAN

To set up your Wireless network at home you need to have the following:

Access point (router)

Access points (routers) are two-way transceivers that broadcast data into the surrounding environment. Access points act as a mediator between wired and wireless network. Most routers have a built-in DSL modem that will allow you access to a high speed DSL internet connection. The ISP (Internet Service Provider) you have chosen normally supplies a modem/router with the subscription to their

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Acer Aspire ES1-711 user manual Network connections, Wireless networks, Components of a wireless LAN