Instant Wireless® Series

Chapter 7: Using the WLAN Monitor for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000

Overview

Use the WLAN Monitor to check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or make additional configuration changes.

Starting the WLAN Monitor

Important for Windows XP users: Windows XP has a built-in configuration tool. Use the Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration (in the system tray at the bottom of your screen) to configure the Adapter. See “Chapter 6: Driver Installation and Configuration for Windows XP.”

After installing the Adapter, the Wireless-B PCI Adapter WLAN

 

Monitor icon will appear in your system tray. Double-click the

Figure 7-1

icon (see Figure 7-1).

The Link Information screen will appear, displaying the settings for your cur- rent wireless connection. To search for available wireless networks, click the Site Survey tab. To perform configuration changes, click the Profiles tab.

Figure 7-2

Wireless-B PCI Adapter

Link Information

The Link Information screen (Figure 7-3) shows you the settings of your cur- rent connection.

Figure 7-3

TCP/IP Setting

IP Address - The IP Address of the Adapter. Subnet Mask - The Subnet Mask of the Adapter.

Default Gateway - The Default Gateway address of the Adapter. DNS - The DNS address of the Adapter.

DHCP - The status of the DHCP client.

Wireless Network Status

State - The status of the wireless network connection. SSID - The SSID of the wireless network.

Network Type - The wireless mode currently in use.

Transfer Rate - The data transfer rate of the current connection. Channel - The channel to which the wireless network devices are set. WEP - The status of the WEP encryption security feature.

MAC - The MAC address of the wireless network’s access point.

Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates signal strength, from 0 to 100%.

Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless net- work connection, from 0 to 100%.

Click the X (Close) button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor.

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Linksys WMP11 manual Starting the Wlan Monitor, Link Information

WMP11 specifications

The Linksys WMP11 is a wireless network adapter that exemplifies the early 802.11b technology, designed to enhance connectivity in home and small office environments. Launched in the early 2000s, this product was one of the first to facilitate wireless connections for desktop PCs, allowing users to harness the power of wireless networking without the constraints of physical cables.

One of the main features of the WMP11 is its compatibility with the 802.11b wireless standard, which offers data transfer rates of up to 11 Mbps. This was a crucial advancement in networking technology at the time, as it enabled users to enjoy a significantly faster internet connection compared to traditional dial-up services. The adapter operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency band, providing a range of approximately 150 feet indoors and up to 300 feet outdoors under optimal conditions.

The WMP11 comes equipped with a PCI interface, making installation straightforward for users with compatible desktop computers. The adapter features Linksys' Plug and Play technology, allowing for easy setup and configuration. With a driver disk provided, users can quickly install the necessary software to get the device up and running. Moreover, it supports WEP security protocols, which, while dated compared to modern standards, offered basic encryption to protect wireless connections during its time.

Additionally, the WMP11 integrates seamlessly with other Linksys networking products, particularly their wireless routers, enabling users to create a robust and comprehensive wireless network. The adapter features a removable antenna, allowing users to replace it with a higher-gain antenna for extended range and improved signal quality.

Despite its age, the Linksys WMP11 laid the groundwork for subsequent generations of wireless technology. It helped usher in a new era of networking, characterized by the convenience and flexibility of wireless connectivity. While it may no longer meet the needs of today’s high-speed internet requirements, the WMP11 holds a nostalgic place in the evolution of wireless networking technology. Users seeking reliable wireless communication during its prime found a dependable solution in the WMP11, making it a noteworthy device in the history of networking.