Instant WirelessTM Series

Package Contents

One Instant WirelessTM Network Access Point

One AC Power Adapter

One Setup CD-ROM

One User Guide and Registration Card

Two Detachable Antennas

One USB Cable

System Requirements

A PC with USB Support or Ethernet Connection

Windows 95, 98, Millennium, NT version 4.0, or 2000 Professional

500 Kbytes of free disk space for utility and driver installation

A 10 Mbps Category 3 or Better network RJ-45 connection

Linux/Unix Users: Though these operating systems are not supported by Linksys, the Wireless Access Point should work in these environments. The WAP11 can be configured under these operating systems using SNMP. A configurable Management Information Base file (MIB) named AT76C510.MIB can be found on the Setup Utility CD. This file is for

Linux/Unix users only, and is not necessary for any Windows installation.

Wireless Network Access Point

Planning Your Wireless Network

Network Topology

A wireless LAN is a group of computers, each equipped with one Instant Wireless™ Network Card. Computers in a wireless LAN must be configured to share the same radio channel.

The Instant Wireless™ Network Card provides access to a wired LAN for wire- less workstations. An integrated wireless and wired LAN is called an Infrastructure configuration. A group of Instant Wireless™ Network Card users and an Instant Wireless™ Network Access Point compose a Basic Service Set (BSS). Each Instant Wireless™ Network Card PC in a BSS can talk to any computer in a wired LAN infrastructure via the Instant Wireless™ Network Access Point.

An infrastructure configuration extends the accessibility of an Instant Wireless™ Network Card PC to a wired LAN, and doubles the effective wire- less transmission range for two Instant Wireless™ Network Card PCs. Since the Wireless Network Access Point is able to forward data within its BSS, the effective transmission range in an infrastructure LAN is doubled.

The use of a unique ID in a BSS is essential. All Instant Wireless™ Network PC Card PCs configured without roaming options in an independent BSS must be configured with a BSS ID used in the BSS.

The wireless LAN Infrastructure configuration is appropriate for enterprise- scale wireless access to a central database, or as a wireless application for mobile users.

Roaming

Infrastructure mode also supports roaming capabilities for mobile users. More than one BSS can be configured as an Extended Service Set (ESS). This con- tinuous network allows users to roam freely within an ESS. All Instant Wireless™ Network PC Card PCs within one ESS must be configured with the same ESS ID and use the same radio channel.

Before enabling an ESS with roaming capability, choosing a feasible radio channel and optimum Wireless Network Access Point position is recommend- ed. Proper Wireless Network Access Point positioning combined with a clear radio signal will greatly enhance performance.

2

3

Page 4
Image 4
Linksys WAP11 manual Planning Your Wireless Network, Package Contents, System Requirements, Network Topology, Roaming

WAP11 specifications

The Linksys WAP11 is a versatile and influential device in the realm of wireless networking. Released in the early 2000s, this wireless access point was designed to offer seamless connectivity for users who required reliable internet access without the constraints of wired connections. The WAP11 quickly became popular for home and office environments, allowing multiple devices to connect to the internet wirelessly.

One of the standout features of the Linksys WAP11 is its compliance with the IEEE 802.11b wireless networking standard. This standard enabled the WAP11 to deliver a maximum data transfer rate of up to 11 Mbps, which was impressive at the time of its launch. It also supported backward compatibility with 802.11g devices, enabling a broader range of connectivity options for users.

The WAP11 utilizes both infrastructure and ad-hoc modes, catering to various networking setups. The infrastructure mode allows for connection through a wireless router or switch, while the ad-hoc mode facilitates a peer-to-peer connection among multiple devices. This flexibility makes the WAP11 suitable for both small home networks and larger office settings.

Another notable characteristic of the WAP11 is its range and coverage capability. The device operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency and is designed to provide coverage in a typical home or small office. When deployed in an environment with minimal obstacles, the WAP11 offers a considerable range, ensuring that users can connect from various locations within the premises.

Security features are also a significant aspect of the WAP11. It supports Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption, providing a basic level of security to protect data transmitted across the wireless network. While WEP has since been superseded by more robust security protocols like WPA and WPA2, it was a necessary feature for its time, giving users peace of mind regarding their data protection.

Installation and setup of the Linksys WAP11 are user-friendly, making it accessible even for individuals with minimal technical experience. The device comes with a web-based interface that allows users to configure settings, adjust security parameters, and troubleshoot network issues with ease.

In summary, the Linksys WAP11 is a remarkable wireless access point that laid the groundwork for the wireless networking standards we now take for granted. With its support for 802.11b, flexible operating modes, decent range, and user-friendly configuration, the WAP11 provided a reliable solution for expanding wireless connectivity. Its influence can be seen in the ongoing evolution of wireless networking technologies, emphasizing the importance of connectivity in our increasingly digital world.