Gateway 9310, User Manual

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Chapter 7: Networking Your Computer
Wireless Ethernet speed and frequency
Wireless Ethernet is available at two different speeds and at two different frequencies. The
following table compares the various wireless Ethernet network types.
Important If your computer came equipped with an internal radio frequency
wireless device, see “Safety, Regulatory, and Legal Information” in
your user’s guide for general wireless regulatory and safety
guidelines. To find out if your computer has an internal wireless
device, check the device manager. For more information, see
“Determining if wireless Ethernet is already installed on your
computers” on page 86
.
Important Note any antenna placement constraints in the user guide of each
type of wireless device in your network.
Network Type Speed Frequency Advantages Disadvantages
IEEE 802.11a 54 Mbps 5 GHz Less possible interference than
IEEE 802.11b and
IEEE 802.11g
■
Shorter range (25 to 75
feet) than IEEE 802.11b
and IEEE 802.11g
■
Not compatible with
IEEE 802.11b or
IEEE 802.11g networks
IEEE 802.11b 11 Mbps 2.4 GHz
■
Large number of access points
already exist in airports,
college campuses, and
businesses
■
Compatible with IEEE 802.11g
networks
■
Longer range (100 to 150 feet)
than IEEE 802.11a
■
Possible interference from
cordless telephones and
microwaves
■
Not compatible with
IEEE 802.11a networks
IEEE 802.11g 54 Mbps 2.4 GHz
■
Compatible with IEEE 802.11b
networks
■
Longer range (100 to 150 feet)
than IEEE 802.11a
■
Possible interference from
cordless telephones and
microwaves
■
Not compatible with
IEEE 802.11a networks
Important The speed of a wireless network is related to signal strength. Signal
strength is affected by the distance between your wireless network
devices, by radio interference, and by interference from natural
obstructions such as walls, floors, and doors.