Wireless Configuration 4-1
202-10072-01, March 2005
Chapter 4 Wireless Configuration
This chapter describes how to configure the wireless features of your WPN824 router. In planning
your wireless network, you should consider the level of security required. You should also select
the physical placement of your firewall in order to maximize the network speed. For further
information on wireless networking, refer to Appendix D, “Wireless Networking Basics.

Observe Performance, Placement, and Range Guidelines

The operating distance or range of your wireless connection can vary significantly based on the
physical placement of the wireless firewall. The latency, data throughput performance, and
notebook power consumption of wireless adapters also vary depending on your configuration
choices.
For best results, place your firewall:
• Near the center of the area in which your computers will operate.
• In an elevated location such as a high shelf where the wirelessly connected computers have
line-of-sight access (even if through walls).
• Away from sources of interference, such as computers, microwaves, and 2.4 GHz cordless
phones.
• Away from large metal surfaces.
The time it takes to establish a wireless connection can vary depending on both your security
settings and placement. WEP connections can take slightly longer to establish. Also, WEP and
WPA-PSK \encryption can consume more battery power on a notebook computer.
Note: Failure to follow these guidelines can result in significant performance
degradation or inability to wirelessly connect to the router. For complete range/
performance specifications, please see Appendix A, “Technical Specifications.”