Wireless Basics

For the average home, signal range should not be an issue. If you experience low or no signal strength in areas of your home that you wish to access, consider positioning the Access Point in a location directly between the computers with wireless adapters. Additional Access Points can be connected to provide better coverage in rooms where the signal does not appear as strong as desired.

Using radio frequency (RF) technology, WLANs (Wireless Local Area Networks) transmit and receive data over the air, minimizing the need for wired connections. Thus, WLANs combine data connectivity with user mobility, and, through simplified configuration, enable movable LANs.

4.Getting Started

Right out of the box, with its default settings, the DWL-650+ will automatically connect with other D-Link Air or AirPlus products.

For the price of a single IP Address from your Broadband Internet Service provider you can share the Internet with all the computers on your local network, without sacrificing speed or security, using D-Link AirPlus networking products.

There are basically two modes of networking:

Infrastructure – using a Router/ Access Point, such as the DWL-900AP+ Ad-Hoc– directly connecting to another computer, for peer-to-peer communication, using wireless network adapters on each computer, such as two or more DWL-650+ Cardbus adapters.

On the following pages we will show you an example of an Infrastructure Network and an Ad-Hoc Network.

An Infrastructure network contains an Access Point/Router.

The Infrastructure Network example shown on the following page contains the following D-Link network devices:

A wireless Broadband Router -

D-Link Air DI-614+

A laptop computer with a wireless network adapter -

D-Link AirPlus DWL-650+

A desktop computer with a wireless network adapter -

D-Link AirPlus DWL-520+

A Cable modem -

D-Link DCM-201

DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. It is a protocol for assigning IP Addresses “automatically.” With a DHCP-capable gateway/router, there is no need to manually assign an IP Address.

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D-Link DWL-650 manual Getting Started
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DWL-650 specifications

The D-Link DWL-650 is a well-regarded wireless network adapter known for its reliability and performance in various networking environments. Released in the early 2000s, it is designed to provide seamless wireless connectivity for laptops and desktop computers. Supporting the 802.11b wireless standard, the DWL-650 operates at speeds of up to 11 Mbps, making it suitable for basic internet tasks such as browsing and email.

One of the standout features of the DWL-650 is its ease of installation. The device typically comes with a straightforward setup wizard that guides users through the process, enabling even novice users to get connected without complications. It is equipped with an external antenna, which helps to enhance the wireless signal range and provides better overall coverage. This feature is particularly useful in larger spaces where signal strength can be a concern.

The DWL-650 is compliant with both the Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) bands, allowing for a stable connection that minimizes interference from other devices. It employs a variety of technologies to ensure security and reliability. This includes support for Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), helping to protect users’ data and ensuring secure communications across the wireless network.

Another characteristic worth noting is its compatibility with a range of operating systems. The DWL-650 supports Windows, Mac OS, and Linux environments, making it a versatile choice for users with different types of devices. Additionally, its compact and lightweight design makes it portable, which is ideal for users on the go.

In terms of performance, while the DWL-650 may not match the speeds of later wireless technologies like 802.11g or 802.11n, it still holds up well for basic networking needs. For users who require a cost-effective solution for email, web browsing, and other low-bandwidth activities, the D-Link DWL-650 represents a solid choice.

In conclusion, the D-Link DWL-650 wireless network adapter is characterized by its combination of ease of use, decent wireless performance, and solid security features. Its compatibility with multiple operating systems and the inclusion of a range-extending antenna make it a practical option for achieving wireless connectivity in a variety of settings. Although it may be considered outdated by today’s standards, its reliability makes it a noteworthy piece of technology in the realm of wireless networking.
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