Gateway 200ARC, Network Manual

Page: 17 / 160

11
Learning the Basics
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Example access point wireless Ethernet
network
By using an access point , you can join a wireless Ethernet network and access
a wired Ethernet network. The following example shows how an access point
also lets you access the Internet.
The following is an example of an access point wireless Ethernet network. The
network is made up of an access point, a cable or DSL modem, and your
computers. The access point is the central control point for the network.
Attached to the access point is the cable or DSL modem that provides access
to the Internet. Each of the computers or Ethernet-ready devices communicate
with the access point using radio waves. If your computer does not have built-in
wireless Ethernet capabilities, you need to add a wireless PCI card (desktop),
PC card (notebook), or USB adapter.
Tips & Tricks If you want to access a wired Ethernet network from your
wireless Ethernet computers, connect an access point to
the router, switch, or hub. For more information about
accessing a wired Ethernet, see
“Using a wired Ethernet
network” on page 5 .
Cable/DSL modem
Access point
USB wireless
adapter