Instant Wireless® Series

Appendix C: Glossary

802.11b - One of the IEEE standards for wireless networking hardware. Products that adhere to a specific IEEE standard will work with each other, even if they are manufactured by different companies. The 802.11b standard specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 11Mbps, an operating frequency of 2.4GHz, and WEP encryption for security. 802.11b networks are also referred to as Wi-Fi networks.

802.11g - A proposed, but as yet unratified extension of the IEEE 802.11 stan- dard for wireless networking hardware. The draft 802.11g specifications used by Linksys specify a maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps using OFDM modulation, an operating frequency of 2.4GHz, backward compatibility with IEEE 802.11b devices and WEP encryption for security.

Adapter - Printed circuit board that plugs into a PC to add to capabilities or connectivity to a PC. In a networked environment, a network interface card is the typical adapter that allows the PC or server to connect to the intranet and/or Internet.

Ad-hoc Network - An ad-hoc network is a wireless network or other small net- work in which some of the network devices are part of the network only for the duration of a communications session while in some close proximity to the rest of the network.

Backbone - The part of a network that connects most of the systems and net- works together and handles the most data.

Bandwidth - The transmission capacity of a given facility, in terms of how much data the facility can transmit in a fixed amount of time; expressed in bits per second (bps).

Beacon Interval - A beacon is a packet broadcast by the Access Point to keep the network synchronized. A beacon includes the wireless LAN service area, the AP address, the Broadcast destination addresses, a time stamp, Delivery Traffic Indicator Maps, and the Traffic Indicator Message (TIM).

Bit - A binary digit. The value - 0 or 1-used in the binary numbering system. Also, the smallest form of data.

Wireless-G Access Point

Browser - A browser is an application program that provides a way to look at and interact with all the information on the World Wide Web or PC. The word "browser" seems to have originated prior to the Web as a generic term for user interfaces that let you browse text files online.

BSS (Basic Service Set) - A group of wireless Network PC Card users and an Access Point.

Buffer - A buffer is a shared or assigned memory area used by hardware devices or program processes that operate at different speeds or with different sets of priorities. The buffer allows each device or process to operate without being held up by the other. In order for a buffer to be effective, the size of the buffer and the algorithms for moving data into and out of the buffer need to be considered by the buffer designer. Like a cache, a buffer is a "midpoint holding place" but exists not so much to accelerate the speed of an activity as to sup- port the coordination of separate activities.

CSMA/CA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access/Collision Avoidance) - In local area networking, this is the CSMA technique that combines slotted time-divi- sion multiplexing with carrier sense multiple access/collision detection (CSMA/CD) to avoid having collisions occur a second time. This works best if the time allocated is short compared to packet length and if the number of sit- uations is small.

CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access/Collision Detection) - The LAN access method used in Ethernet. When a device wants to gain access to the net- work, it checks to see if the network is quiet (senses the carrier). If it is not, it waits a random amount of time before retrying. If the network is quiet and two devices access the line at exactly the same time, their signals collide. When the collision is detected, they both back off and each wait a random amount of time before retrying.

CTS (Clear To Send) - An RS-232 signal sent from the receiving station to the transmitting station that indicates it is ready to accept data.

Database - A database is a collection of data that is organized so that its con- tents can easily be accessed, managed, and updated.

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) - A protocol that lets network administrators manage centrally and automate the assignment of Internet Protocol (IP) addresses in an organization's network. Using the Internet's set of protocol (TCP/IP), each machine that can connect to the Internet needs a

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D-Link WAP54G manual Appendix C Glossary
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WAP54G specifications

The D-Link WAP54G is a wireless access point that offers a variety of features aimed at enhancing network connectivity and performance. Designed for small to medium-sized environments, this device is an essential component for creating a reliable wireless network. With its impressive capabilities, the WAP54G easily integrates into existing networks, providing enhanced coverage and flexibility.

One of the main features of the WAP54G is its support for the IEEE 802.11g standard, which allows for data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This standard is backward compatible with 802.11b devices, ensuring that users can maintain connectivity with older hardware. This level of compatibility makes the WAP54G a versatile choice for diverse networking needs.

The device is equipped with advanced security features, including WPA and WPA2 encryption protocols, ensuring that users can protect their network from unauthorized access. These security measures are essential in today’s world, where data breaches are increasingly common. Additionally, the WAP54G supports MAC address filtering, which further restricts access to only authorized devices.

For connectivity, the WAP54G includes multiple Ethernet ports, allowing it to be connected directly to a wired network. This feature enables the access point to bridge the gap between wired and wireless devices, facilitating seamless communication. Moreover, the WAP54G supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), which simplifies installation by allowing it to receive power and data through a single Ethernet cable. This is particularly beneficial in environments where power outlets are limited or difficult to access.

Another noteworthy aspect of the WAP54G is its coverage capabilities. With its adjustable antennas, users can optimize signal distribution throughout a building, overcoming common obstacles such as walls and furniture that can hinder wireless performance. The access point also boasts a user-friendly web-based interface, making it easy to configure and manage settings for both novice and experienced users alike.

In terms of reliability, the D-Link WAP54G features a solid build quality and a compact design, allowing it to fit seamlessly into various environments. The device is also equipped with LED indicators that provide real-time status updates on power, Ethernet connection, and wireless activity, enabling users to monitor their network easily.

Overall, the D-Link WAP54G is a robust wireless access point that combines speed, security, and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for enhancing network performance in both home and office settings.
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