Gateway 400 manual Using a wireless Ethernet network, 162

Chapter 11: Networking Your Computer

Using a wireless Ethernet network

A wireless Ethernet network is ideal for creating a home or office network or adding mobility to an existing wired Ethernet.

Warning

Radio frequency wireless communication can interfere with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation regulations require wireless devices to be turned off while traveling in an airplane. IEEE 802.11a and IEEE 802.11b communication devices are examples of devices that provide wireless communication. For instructions to turn wireless Ethernet on and off, see “Turning your wireless Ethernet on or off” on page 167.

Important

If your notebook came equipped with an internal radio frequency wireless device, see “Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information” on page 245 for general wireless regulatory and safety guidelines. To find out if your notebook has an internal wireless device, check the label (see “Identifying your model” on page 11).

Wireless Ethernet is available at two different speeds. 802.11a wireless Ethernet runs at speeds up to 54 Mbps, or about half the speed of Fast Ethernet. 802.11b wireless Ethernet runs at speeds up to 11 Mbps, or approximately the same speed as standard wired Ethernet. This type of network allows you the freedom to move about your home or office with your notebook. For example, you can take your notebook from your home office to your patio without having an Ethernet jack available.

Important

The speed of a wireless network is related to signal strength. Signal strength is affected by the distance between your wireless network devices, by radio interference, and by interference from natural obstructions such as walls, floors, and doors.

The two most common types of wireless Ethernet networks are access point and peer-to-peer.

162 www.gateway.com