Proxim AP-700 manual Document Conventions, Introduction to Wireless Networking

AP-700 User Guide

Introduction 1

This chapter contains information on the following:

•Document Conventions

•Introduction to Wireless Networking

•Guidelines for Roaming

•IEEE 802.11 Specifications

•Management and Monitoring Capabilities

Document Conventions

•AP refers to an AP-700 Access Point.

•802.11 is used to describe features that apply to the 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g wireless standards.

•Blue underlined text indicates a link to a topic or Web address. If you are viewing this documentation on your computer, click the blue text to jump to the linked item.

•Text enclosed within triangle brackets, < >, should be replaced with a user-defined value.

•The following special notations are used:

NOTE: A note contains important information that helps you make better use of the AP or your computer.

CAUTION: A Caution indicates potential damage to hardware or loss of data.

WARNING: A Warning indicates imminent danger to hardware or loss of data.

Introduction to Wireless Networking

An Access Point extends the capability of an existing Ethernet network to devices on a wireless network. Wireless devices can connect to a single Access Point, or they can move between multiple Access Points located within the same vicinity. As wireless clients move from one coverage cell to another, they maintain network connectivity.

In a typical network environment (see Figure 1-1), the AP functions as a wireless network access point to data and voice networks. An AP network provides:

•Seamless client roaming for both data and voice (VoIP)

•Easy installation and operation

•Over-the-air encryption of data

•High speed network links

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