Instant Wireless™ Series

IEEE - The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. The IEEE describes itself as “the world’s largest technical professional society—promot- ing the development and application of electrotechnology and allied sciences for the benefit of humanity, the advancement of the profession, and the well- being of our members.”

The IEEE fosters the development of standards that often become national and international standards. The organization publishes a number of journals, has many local chapters, and several large societies in special areas, such as the IEEE Computer Society.

IP Address - In the most widely installed level of the Internet Protocol (Internet Protocol) today, an IP address is a 32-binary digit number that identi- fies each sender or receiver of information that is sent in packet across the Internet. When you request an HTML page or send e-mail, the Internet Protocol part of TCP/IP includes your IP address in the message (actually, in each of the packets if more than one is required) and sends it to the IP address that is obtained by looking up the domain name in the Uniform Resource Locator you requested or in the e-mail address you're sending a note to. At the other end, the recipient can see the IP address of the Web page requestor or the e-mail sender and can respond by sending another message using the IP address it received.

ISP - An ISP (Internet service provider) is a company that provides individuals and companies access to the Internet and other related services such as Web site building and virtual hosting.

LAN - A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and associated devices that share a common communications line and typically share the resources of a single processor or server within a small geographic area (for example, within an office building).

Mbps (MegaBits Per Second) - One million bits per second; unit of measure- ment for data transmission.

NetBEUI (NetBIOS Extended User Interface) - The transport layer for NetBIOS. NetBIOS and NetBEUI were originally part of a single protocol suite that was later separated. NetBIOS sessions can be transported over NetBEUI, TCP/IP and SPX/IPX protocols.

Wireless PrintServer

NetBIOS - The native networking protocol in DOS and Windows networks. Although originally combined with its transport layer protocol (NetBEUI), NetBIOS today provides a programming interface for applications at the ses- sion layer (layer 5). NetBIOS can ride over NetBEUI, its native transport, which is not routable, or over TCP/IP and IPX/SPX, which are routable proto- cols.

NetBIOS computers are identified by a unique 15-character name, and Windows machines (NetBIOS machines) periodically broadcast their names over the network so that Network Neighborhood can catalog them. For TCP/IP networks, NetBIOS names are turned into IP addresses via manual configura- tion in an LMHOSTS file or a WINS server.

There are two NetBIOS modes. The Datagram mode is the fastest mode, but does not guarantee delivery. It uses a self-contained packet with send and receive name, usually limited to 512 bytes. If the recipient device is not listen- ing for messages, the datagram is lost. The Session mode establishes a connec- tion until broken. It guarantees delivery of messages up to 64KB long.

Network - A system that transmits any combination of voice, video and/or data between users.

Packet - A unit of data routed between an origin and a destination in a network.

Port - A pathway into and out of the computer or a network device such as a switch or router. For example, the serial and parallel ports on a personal com- puter are external sockets for plugging in communications lines, modems and printers.

PrintServer - A hardware device that enables a printer to be located anywhere in the network.

RJ-45(Registered Jack-45) - A connector similar to a telephone connector that holds up to eight wires, used for connecting Ethernet devices.

Router - Protocol-dependent device that connects subnetworks together. Routers are useful in breaking down a very large network into smaller subnet- works.

Server - Any computer whose function in a network is to provide user access to files, printing, communications, and other services.

47

48

Page 27
Image 27
Linksys WPS11 manual Instant Wireless Series

WPS11 specifications

The Linksys WPS11 is a wireless print server that revolutionized the way users can connect and share printers in a home or office environment. As one of the fundamental products from Linksys, a leader in networking solutions, the WPS11 stands out for its ease of use and compatibility with various printers.

One of the main features of the WPS11 is its wireless connectivity. The device operates on the 802.11b wireless standard, allowing it to communicate with compatible wireless routers and access points. This feature enables users to place their printers in convenient locations without the need for cumbersome Ethernet cables or USB connections. Users can enjoy the flexibility of printing from any room within the range of their wireless network, making it an ideal solution for modern home and office setups.

Additionally, the Linksys WPS11 is designed to support various operating systems, including Windows and Mac OS. This extensive compatibility ensures that a broad range of users can effortlessly integrate it into their existing environments. Setting up the WPS11 is straightforward, thanks to Linksys's user-friendly installation software, which guides users through the process step by step.

Another critical technological aspect of the WPS11 is its ability to support multiple printer types. The device features a USB port that can connect to most USB printers available on the market, allowing users to share a single printer among multiple computers. This is particularly beneficial in shared workspaces where multiple users require access to the same printing resources.

In terms of security, the Linksys WPS11 incorporates 64-bit and 128-bit WEP encryption, ensuring that communication over the network remains secure. This feature is essential in preventing unauthorized access and safeguarding sensitive documents being printed, providing users with peace of mind.

Compact in design, the Linksys WPS11 can easily fit into various office setups without taking up valuable desk space. It also includes LED indicators that allow users to monitor the device's status at a glance, making troubleshooting simple.

In conclusion, the Linksys WPS11 print server combines user-friendly features, broad compatibility, and solid security, making it an essential tool for anyone looking to streamline their printing processes in a wireless environment. Its innovative technology paves the way for greater productivity, ensuring that users can focus on their tasks without being tied down by traditional printing limitations.