NDC comm NWH2610, NWH6210 manual Plan the Network, Infrastructure Network Types, Access Point

Plan the Network

Infrastructure Network Types

An infrastructure network is formed by several stations (WWBs or WECs) and one or more Access Points (APs), with the stations (WWB or WEC) within a set distance from the AP. Figure 1 depicts a typical infrastructure network topology.

There are three infrastructure network setups that are commonly used. It is a good idea to understand the possible network setups and configuration requirements before planning your wireless network.

Type 1. The simplest wireless infrastructure network is composed of one AP and a few wireless stations communicating via radio waves (Figure 1). This setup enables mobile stations to communicate with each other. The main benefit of this type of network is to extend the range of the network. If an AP is placed between the stations, the radio transmission distance is effectively doubled since Wireless Computer-1 can talk to Wireless Computer-2 through the AP. The drawback of this configuration is that the effective bandwidth is halved since all communication is relayed by the AP.

	Access Point
Wireless		Wireless
Computer-1		Computer-2
With WEC

Figure 1. Simple Wireless Infrastructure Network

Type 2. The next simplest wireless network is very similar to the Type 1

InstantWave 11Mbps WWB/WEC 17