Chapter 9: 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.
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
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