Lancom Systems 3550 manual Introduction, What is a Wireless LAN?, Which hardware to use?

LANCOM 3550 Wireless

Chapter 1: Introduction

1 Introduction

1.1What is a Wireless LAN?

in general. The functions supported by your device are listed in the

table 'What can your LANCOM Router do?'. Detailed information on Wireless LANs can be found in the LCOS reference manual.The following sections describe the functionality of wireless networks

A Wireless LAN connects single terminals (e.g. PCs or notebooks) to a local network (also LAN – Local Area Network). In contrast to a conventional LAN, communication takes place via radio links rather than via network cables. This is the reason why a Wireless LAN is also called a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN).

All functions of a cable-bound network are also available in a Wireless LAN: access to files, servers, printers etc. is as possible as the connection of individ- ual stations to an internal mail system or to the Internet access.

The advantages of Wireless LANs are obvious: notebooks and PCs can be set up just where they are needed. Due to Wireless LANs, problems with missing connections or structural alterations belong to the past.

Apart from that, wireless LANs can also be used for connections over longer distances. Expensive leased lines and the associated construction measures can be spared.

1.1.1Which hardware to use?

Each station of the Wireless LAN needs access to the Wireless LAN in the form of a wireless interface. Devices which have no built-in wireless interface can be upgraded with a supplement card or an adapter.

LANCOM Systems offers wireless adapters by its AirLancer product line. An AirLancer wireless adapter enables a device (e.g. PC or note- book) for access to the Wireless LAN.

1.1.2Operation modes of Wireless LANs and base stations

Wireless LAN technology and base stations in Wireless LANs are used in the following operation modes:

Simple direct connections between terminals without base station (ad- hoc mode)

EN

9