Planning the Network
Infrastructure Network Types
An infrastructure network is formed by several wireless stations and one or more
access points (APs), with the stations within radio range of the AP or APs. 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
access point (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.
Figure 1. Simple wireless infrastructure network
Type 2.
The next simplest wireless network is very similar to the Type 1
network. This time the AP is connected to a wired Ethernet network as
a node. In this configuration the AP operates as a bridge between the
wired Ethernet network and the wireless networks (Figure 2).
8
Outdoor Access Point
