Figure 2-1

Instant Wireless® Series

Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network

Network Topology

A wireless local area network (WLAN) is exactly like a regular local area net- work (LAN), except that each computer in the WLAN uses a wireless device to connect to the network. Computers in a WLAN share the same frequency channel and SSID, which is an identification name for wireless devices.

Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode

Unlike wired networks, wireless networks have two different modes in which they may be set up: infrastructure and ad-hoc. An infrastructure configura- tion is a WLAN and wired LAN communicating to each other through an access point. An ad-hoc configuration is wireless-equipped computers com- municating directly with each other. Choosing between these two modes depends on whether or not the wireless network needs to share data or periph- erals with a wired network or not.

If the computers on the wireless network need to be accessed by a wired network or need to share a peripheral, such as a print- er, with the wired network computers, the wireless network should be set up in infrastructure mode. (See Figure 2-1.) The basis of infrastructure mode centers around an access point, which serves

as the main point of communications in a wireless network. Access points transmit data to PCs equipped with wireless network cards, which can roam within a certain radial range of the access point. Multiple access points can be arranged to work in succession to extend the roaming range, and can be set up to communicate with your Ethernet (wired) hardware as well.

Wireless-B PCI Adapter

If the wireless network is relatively small and needs to share resources only with the other computers on the wireless network, then the ad-hocmode can be used. (See Figure 2-2.) Ad-hoc mode allows computers equipped with wire- less transmitters and receivers to communicate directly with each other, elimi- nating the need for an access point. The drawback of this mode is that, in Ad- Hoc mode, wireless-equipped computers are not able to communicate with computers on a wired network. And, of course, communication between the wireless-equipped computers is limited by the distance and interference direct- ly between them.

Figure 2-2

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Linksys WMP11 manual Planning Your Wireless Network, Network Topology, Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode
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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.
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