Enterasys Networks Wireless Ethernet Adapter I manual Chapter Configuration Overview

Chapter 2

Configuration Overview

The RoamAbout Wireless Ethernet Adapter transforms wired devices (for example., desktop computers and printers) into wireless devices. The RoamAbout Wireless Ethernet Adapter is easily integrated into your existing wireless network.

The RoamAbout Wireless Ethernet Adapter can be used in the following wireless topologies:

∙Wireless infrastructure networks, which require the RoamAbout Access Point.

∙Wireless ad-hoc networks, which do not require the RoamAbout Access Point

Wireless Infrastructure Network

In a wireless infrastructure network, wireless clients communicate with an Access Point (AP) connected to a wired LAN. A RoamAbout wireless infrastructure can support clients with various supported operating systems. Infrastructure mode is often used in systems that have heavy network traffic and want to utilize the filtering capabilities of the AP.

The AP remains as a stationary part of the wireless LAN, unlike individual Ethernet Adapter units that can be physically moved throughout the wireless LAN. The Ethernet Adapter synchronizes communication with the AP. Individual Ethernet Adapter units do not communicate directly with each other. All communication between multiple Ethernet Adapter units, or between an Ethernet Adapter unit and a wired network client, go through the AP.

Multiple Access Points can be used to extend the coverage area.

Figure 2-1shows an example of an infrastructure network.

Configuration Overview 2-1