A wireless network where each device communicates with others through a wireless access point (wireless router) is set up in infrastructure mode. All devices must have valid IP addresses and share the same SSID and channel. In addition, they must share the same SSID and channel as the wireless access point (wireless router).
A simple type of wireless network is one where a PC with a wireless adapter communicates directly with a printer equipped for wireless networking. This mode of communication is called ad hoc. A device in this type of network must have a valid IP address and be set to ad hoc mode. The wireless print server must also be configured with the same SSID and channel.
Characteristics
Communication
Security
Range
Speed
Requirements for all devices on the network
Unique IP address for each device
Mode set to
Same SSID
Same channel
Infrastructure
Through wireless access point (wireless router)
More security options
Determined by range and number of access points
Usually faster
Yes
Infrastructure mode
Yes, including the wireless access point (wireless router)
Yes, including the wireless access point (wireless router)
Ad hoc
Directly between devices
Restricted to range of individual devices on network
Usually slower
Yes
Ad hoc mode
Yes
Yes
Infrastructure mode is the recommended setup method because it has:
•Increased network security
•Increased reliability
•Faster performance
•Easier setup
Advanced wireless setup
Creating an ad hoc wireless network using Windows
The recommended way to set up your wireless network is to use a wireless access point (wireless router). A network set up this way is called an infrastructure network. If you have an infrastructure network in your home, you should configure your printer for use on that network.
If you don't have a wireless access point (wireless router) or would like to set up a standalone network between your printer and a computer with a wireless network adapter, you can set up an ad hoc network.
For Windows Vista users
1Click 
Control Panel Network and Internet.
2Under Network and Sharing Center, click Connect to a Network.
25
