Linksys WAP11 v2.2 manual Appendix a Troubleshooting, Frequently Asked Questions

Instant Wireless™ Series

Appendix A: Troubleshooting

This chapter provides solutions to problems usually encountered during the installation and operation of the Access Point. Read the description below to solve your problems. If you can’t find an answer here, check the Linksys web- site at www.linksys.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Access Point act as my DHCP Server?

No. The Access Point is nothing more than a wireless hub, and as such, cannot be configured to handle DHCP capabilities.

Can I run an application from a remote computer over the wireless net- work?

This will depend on whether or not the application is designed to be used over a network. Consult the application’s user guide to determine if it supports oper- ation over a network.

Can I play multiplayer games with other users of the wireless network?

Yes, as long as the game supports multiple players over a LAN (local area net- work). Refer to the game’s user guide for more information.

What is the IEEE 802.11b standard?

The IEEE 802.11b Wireless LAN standards subcommittee is formulating a standard for the industry. The objective is to enable wireless LAN hardware from different manufacturers to communicate.

What IEEE 802.11 features are supported?

The product supports the following IEEE 802.11 functions:

•CSMA/CA plus Acknowledge protocol

•Multi-Channel Roaming

•Automatic Rate Selection

•RTS/CTS feature

•Fragmentation

•Power Management

What is Ad-hoc?

An Ad-hoc wireless LAN is a group of computers, each with a WLAN adapter, connected as an independent wireless LAN. An Ad-hoc wireless LAN is appli- cable at a departmental scale for a branch or SOHO operation.

Wireless Network Access Point

What is Infrastructure?

An integrated wireless and wired LAN is called an Infrastructure configura- tion. Infrastructure is applicable to enterprise scale for wireless access to a cen- tral database, or wireless application for mobile workers.

What is Roaming?

Roaming is the ability of a portable computer user to communicate continu- ously while moving freely throughout an area greater than that covered by a single Access Point. Before using the roaming function, the workstation must make sure that it is the same channel number as the Access Point of the dedi- cated coverage area.

To achieve true seamless connectivity, the wireless LAN must incorporate a number of different functions. Each node and Access Point, for example, must always acknowledge receipt of each message. Each node must maintain contact with the wireless network even when not actually transmitting data. Achieving these functions simultaneously requires a dynamic RF networking technology that links Access Points and nodes. In such a system, the user’s end node under- takes a search for the best possible access to the system. First, it evaluates such factors as signal strength and quality, as well as the message load currently being carried by each Access Point and the distance of each Access Point to the wired backbone. Based on that information, the node next selects the right Access Point and registers its address. Communications between end node and host computer can then be transmitted up and down the backbone.

As the user moves on, the end node’s RF transmitter regularly checks the sys- tem to determine whether it is in touch with the original Access Point or whether it should seek a new one. When a node no longer receives acknowl- edgment from its original Access Point, it undertakes a new search. Upon find- ing a new Access Point, it then re-registers, and the communication process continues.

What is BSS ID?

A specific Ad-hoc LAN is called a Basic Service Set (BSS). Computers in a BSS must be configured with the same BSS ID.

What is ESSID?

An Infrastructure configuration could also support roaming capability for mobile workers. More than one BSS can be configured as an Extended Service Set (ESS). Users within an ESS could roam freely between BSSs while main- taining a continuous connection to the wireless network stations and Access Points.

28 29