12
C
HAPTER
1: O
VERVIEW
OF
D
IGITAL
W
IRELESS
N
ETWORKING
Multiple-AP Full
Coverage Network
This network topology will be used in most enterprise environments: multiple APs
wired to an existing LAN to provide complete wireless network coverage. In this
scenario, as shown in the following figure, wireless clients can roam seamlessly
between different coverage areas and remain connected to the network.
AirConnect Access
Point
The AirConnect access point (AP) provides either a wireless peer-to-peer network
coverage area, or a bridge between Ethernet-wired LANs and AirConnect wireless
networks. Essentially replacing the cabling of wired networks, the AP delivers
transparent connectivity between wireless clients, or between Ethernet networks
and wireless clients.
The AP provides an 11 Mbps data transfer rate, monitoring Ethernet traffic and
forwarding appropriate Ethernet messages to wireless clients over the network.
It also monitors wireless client radio traffic and forwards wireless client packets
to the Ethernet LAN.
The AP uses high data rate, direct sequence spread spectrum technology to
communicate with mobile and stationary units at distances of up to 300 feet,
providing high-capacity networking capability and the flexibility of mobility to
end users.
