Appendix A - Wireless Basics

Where is wireless used?

Wireless technology is expanding everywhere not just at home or office. People like the freedom of mobility and it’s becoming so popular that more and more public facilities now provide wireless access to attract people. The wireless connection in public places is usually called “hotspots”.

Using a D-Link wireless desktop adapter with your laptop, you can access the hotspot to connect to Internet from remote locations like: Airports, Hotels, Coffee Shops, Libraries, Restaurants, and Convention Centers.

Wireless network is easy to setup, but if you’re installing it for the first time it could be quite a task not knowing where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a few setup steps and tips to help you through the process of setting up a wireless network.

Tips

Here are a few things to keep in mind, when you install a wireless network.

Centralize your router or Access Point

Make sure you place the router/access point in a centralized location within your network for the best performance. Try to place the router/access point as high as possible in the room, so the signal gets dispersed throughout your home. If you have a two-story home, you may need a repeater to boost the signal to extend the range.

Eliminate Interference

Place home appliances such as cordless telephones, microwaves, and televisions as far away as possible from the router/access point. This would significantly reduce any interference that the appliances might cause since they operate on same frequency.

D-Link DWA-552 User Manual

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D-Link DWA-55 manual Centralize your router or Access Point, Eliminate Interference

DWA-55 specifications

The D-Link DWA-55 is a high-performance wireless adapter designed to provide seamless connectivity for desktop PCs that lack integrated Wi-Fi capabilities. Operating on the 802.11n standard, this device enhances network speeds and offers improved range compared to its predecessors, making it an ideal choice for users looking to upgrade their desktop systems.

One of the standout features of the DWA-55 is its ability to deliver wireless speeds of up to 300 Mbps. This speed allows users to stream high-definition videos, engage in online gaming, and transfer large files with minimal interruptions. The dual-band capability means that users can connect to both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, providing flexibility and reducing interference from other devices. The adapter automatically selects the best frequency band based on network conditions, ensuring optimal performance at all times.

Equipped with MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) technology, the DWA-55 improves signal quality and range. MIMO utilizes multiple antennas to transmit and receive more data simultaneously, enhancing throughput and reliability. This makes it particularly valuable in environments where obstacles or interference might weaken the wireless signal.

Installation of the DWA-55 is straightforward, thanks to the included setup wizard, which guides users through the process of configuration. The device is compatible with various operating systems, ensuring that it can work with most desktops, whether running Windows, Linux, or other platforms.

Security is also a top priority for the DWA-55, which supports the latest WPA and WPA2 encryption standards. This ensures that users’ data remains secure while they browse the internet or conduct online transactions, providing peace of mind in an increasingly digital world.

In addition to its technical features, the DWA-55 boasts a compact design that fits seamlessly into the desktop environment. Its sleek profile does not obstruct adjacent ports, allowing for flexibility in connectivity.

Overall, the D-Link DWA-55 is an excellent wireless adapter that combines speed, reliability, and security, making it a preferred choice for users looking to enhance their desktop's connectivity options without sacrificing performance. Whether for casual web browsing or more demanding applications, the DWA-55 delivers a robust and user-friendly solution.