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Wireless Basics The C54U is based on industry standards to provide easy-to-use and
compatible high-speed wireless connectivity within your home or business.
Strictly adhering to IEEE 802.11g, the C54U will allow you to access the
data you want, when and where you want it. No longer will you be limited
to one location or forced to run new wiring through your home or office.
You will be able to enjoy the freedom that wireless networking delivers.
A wireless LAN (WLAN) is a cellular computer network that transmits and
receives data with radio signals instead of wires. Wireless LANs are used
increasingly in both home and office environments. Innovative ways to
utilize WLAN technology are helping people to work and communicate
more efficiently. Increased mobility and the absence of cabling and other
fixed infrastructure has proven to be beneficial for many users.
Wireless users can use the same network applications they use on an
Ethernet LAN. Wireless adapters used on laptop and desktop systems,
support the same protocols as Ethernet adapter cards. For most users,
there is no noticeable functional difference between a wired Ethernet
desktop computer and a computer equipped with a wireless adapter -
other than the added benefit of the ability to roam within the wireless cell.
Under many circumstances, it may be desirable for mobile network devices
to link to a conventional Ethernet LAN in order to use servers, printers or
an Internet connection supplied through the wired LAN. A Wireless Access
Point (AP) is a device used to provide this link.
People use wireless LAN technology for many different purposes.
Mobility - Productivity increases when people have access to data in any
location within the operating range of the WLAN. Ad-hoc management
decisions based on real-time information can significantly improve worker
efficiency.
Low Implementation Costs - WLANs are easy to set up, manage, change
and relocate. Networks that frequently change, both physically and
logically, can benefit from WLANs’ ease of implementation. WLANs can
operate in locations where installation of wiring may be impractical.