Gateway EC19C, User Manual

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CHAPTER 5: Networking Your Notebook
50
Speed is not the only issue if you decide to use equipment with different standards.
Compatibility can also be an issue. Take the following into consideration when you
purchase wireless equipment:
Using an access point
An access point is a small electronic device that serves as the central control point
for your network. You connect your modem to the access point, set up a network
connection, then browse the Internet, send e-mail, share files and folders with other
networked computers, and access other devices, like a printer or scanner.
Equipment you need for an access point-based network
For a wireless Ethernet network you need:
•
Your Gateway computer with a wireless Ethernet network card installed
•
A broadband Internet connection (optional)
•
An access point
Determining if a wireless Ethernet device is already installed on your computer
To determine if a wireless Ethernet card is already installed on your computer:
1 Click (Start), then click Control Panel. The
Control Panel
window opens.
2 Click System and Maintenance, then click System.
3 Click Device Manager from the task list on the left. The
Device Manager
window
opens.
Access point Wireless cards supported
802.11a 802.11a only
802.11b 802.11b only
802.11g 802.11b and 802.11g
802.11n 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n
Tip
When you buy your access point, make sure it has:
• IEEE 802.11n support. 802.11n is the fastest method for wireless
communications. 802.11n is compatible with the older IEEE 802.11g and
IEEE 802.11b formats but not with the competing IEEE 802.11a format.
Make sure that you get the correct format that matches your computer.
• DHCP server/dynamic IP address assignment capability that makes it easier
to set up and access your network.
• Internet security features like a firewall to keep intruders out of your
network.
• Wireless security features like SecureEasySetup™ or 128-bit WEP
encryption.
Cable or DSL modem
Access point