NDC comm NWH4020 manual Terminology Used in This Guide, Ad-hoc Network

Terminology Used in This Guide

Ad-hoc Network

An ad-hoc network is a wireless local-area network (WLAN) made up of stations communicating directly with each other through their wireless interfaces. There is no central relay point, and normally no connection to a wired network. Ad-hoc mode is sometimes referred to as peer-to-peer, computer-to-computer, or Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS) mode. Figure 1 shows a typical ad-hoc network.

Figure 1. Ad-hoc network

Infrastructure Network

An infrastructure network is a WLAN made up of wireless stations and at least one wireless relay point, known as a base station or access point (AP). The AP usually has a connection to a wired network, allowing wireless stations to use resources on that network. The AP also relays all communications between wireless stations in its coverage area; these stations never communicate directly with each other. Infrastructure mode is sometimes referred to as managed or Basic Service Set (BSS) mode. Figure 2 shows a typical infrastructure network..

Figure 2. Infrastructure network

2 InstantWave 11-Mbps USB Wireless LAN Adapter