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Linksys WAP11 v2.2 Planning Your Wireless Network, Package Contents, System Requirements, Roaming

Models: WAP11 v2.2

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Instant WirelessTM Series

Figure 1-1

Package Contents

•One Instant WirelessTM Wireless Network Access Point

•One AC Power Adapter

•One Setup Wizard CD-ROM (with User Guide)

•Two Detachable Antennae

•One Quick Installation and Registration Card (not shown)

•One CAT 5 Ethernet Cable (not shown)

System Requirements

•A Windows 95, 98, Millennium, NT version 4.0, 2000, or XP PC

•Internet Explorer ver. 4.0 or higher

•One CD-ROM Drive

Wireless Network Access Point

Chapter 2: Planning Your

Wireless Network

Network Topology

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

The Instant Wireless™ Series adapters provide 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™ Series adapter users and an Instant Wireless™ Wireless Network Access Point compose a Basic Service Set (BSS). Each Instant Wireless™ Series adapter PC in a BSS can talk to any computer in a wired LAN infrastructure via the Instant Wireless™ Wireless Network Access Point.

An infrastructure configuration extends the accessibility of an Instant Wireless™ Series adapter PC to a wired LAN, and doubles the effective wire- less transmission range for two Instant Wireless™ Series adapter 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.

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. All PCs equipped with an Instant Wireless™ Series adapter must be configured with the same SSID and use the same radio channel.

Before enabling a network 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.

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Linksys WAP11 v2.2 manual Planning Your Wireless Network, Package Contents, System Requirements, Network Topology, Roaming
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WAP11 v2.2 specifications

The Linksys WAP11 v2.2 is a wireless access point designed for small to medium-sized business and home users looking to expand their network capabilities. This device offers an appealing blend of features and technologies that cater to both ease of use and efficiency.

One of the primary features of the WAP11 v2.2 is its compatibility with the IEEE 802.11b wireless networking standard. Operating in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, this access point can deliver data rates of up to 11 Mbps under optimal conditions. This makes it well-suited for basic internet browsing, file sharing, and other low to moderate bandwidth applications.

A standout characteristic of the WAP11 v2.2 is its versatility in deployment. It can be easily configured to function in multiple modes, including access point, wireless bridging, or as a wireless repeater. This flexibility allows users to tailor the device to their specific networking needs, whether they are expanding an existing wireless network or creating a new one altogether.

The WAP11 v2.2 also includes robust security features to protect network data. It supports WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) encryption, which, while now considered less secure than modern protocols, was widely used during its time to provide a basic level of wireless security. Additionally, the access point offers MAC address filtering, allowing network administrators to whitelist or blacklist specific devices from accessing the network.

Installation and configuration of the WAP11 v2.2 is facilitated by a user-friendly web interface, making it accessible to users of all technical skill levels. The device can be set up quickly through a standard web browser, allowing users to easily manage settings like SSID, security options, and IP addressing.

In terms of physical characteristics, the WAP11 v2.2 features a compact design that allows for flexible placement in various environments. It includes a reset button for easy troubleshooting and recovery from erroneous settings, ensuring minimal downtime.

Overall, the Linksys WAP11 v2.2 is a solid choice for users looking to enhance their wireless network. Its combination of multiple operating modes, basic security features, and ease of use makes it a practical option for home offices or small business applications. Despite being an older model, it laid the groundwork for future advancements in wireless networking, reflecting the evolution of connectivity solutions over time.