1
2 Wireless Basics
Wireless products are based on industry standards to provide
easy-to-use and compatible high-speed wireless connectivity within
your home or business. Strictly adhering to the 802.11b and 802.11g
standards, our wireless family of products will allow you to access
the data you want, when and where you want it. No longer will you
be limited to one location or forced to run new wiring through your
home or office. You will be able to enjoy the freedom that wireless
networking delivers.
A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a cellular computer
network that transmits and receives data with radio signals instead of
wires. Wireless LANs are used increasingly in both home and office
environments, and public areas such as airports, coffee shops and
universities. Innovative ways to utilize WLAN technology are helping
people to work and communicate more efficiently. Increased mobility
and the absence of cabling and other fixed infrastructure have
proven to be beneficial for many users.
Wireless users can use the same applications they use on a
wired network. Wireless adapter cards used on laptop and desktop
systems, support the same protocols as Ethernet adapter cards.
Under many circumstances, it may be desirable for mobile
network devices to link to a conventional Ethernet LAN in order to
use servers, printers or an Internet connection supplied through the
wired LAN. A Wireless Access Point (AP) is a device used to provide
this link.
