ZyXEL G-220 v2 User’s Guide

CHAPTER 2

Wireless LAN Network

This chapter provides background information on wireless LAN network.

2.1 Wireless LAN Overview

This section describes the wireless LAN network terms and applications.

2.1.1 SSID

The SSID (Service Set Identity) is a unique name shared among all wireless devices in a wireless network. Wireless devices must have the same SSID to communicate with each other.

2.1.2 Channel

A radio frequency used by a wireless device is called a channel.

2.1.3 Transmission Rate (Tx Rate)

The ZyXEL G-220 v2 provides various transmission (data) rate options for you to select. Options include Fully Auto, 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps, 5.5 Mbps, 6 Mbps, 9 Mbps, 11 Mbps, 12 Mbps, 18 Mbps, 24 Mbps, 36 Mbps, 48 Mbps and 54 Mbps. In most networking scenarios, the factory default Fully Auto setting proves the most efficient. This setting allows your ZyXEL G-220 v2 to operate at the maximum transmission (data) rate. When the communication quality drops below a certain level, the ZyXEL G-220 v2 automatically switches to a lower transmission (data) rate. Transmission at lower data speeds is usually more reliable. However, when the communication quality improves again, the ZyXEL G-220 v2 gradually increases the transmission (data) rate again until it reaches the highest available transmission rate. You can select any of the above options. If you wish to balance speed versus reliability, select 54 Mbps in a networking environment where you are certain that all wireless devices can communicate at the highest transmission (data) rate. 1 Mbps or 2 Mbps are used often in networking environments where the range of the wireless connection is more important than speed.

Note: With USB1.0/1.1, the ZyXEL G-220 v2 can only transmit at up to 11Mbps.

2.2 Wireless LAN Security Overview

Wireless LAN security is vital to your network to protect wireless communications.

Chapter 2 Wireless LAN Network

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