Gateway Profile 4, User Manual

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Chapter 8: Networking Your Computer
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Using a wireless Ethernet network
A wireless Ethernet network is ideal for creating a home or office network or
adding mobility to an existing wired Ethernet.
Three type of wireless Ethernet are available. 802.11a and 802.11g wireless
Ethernet runs at speeds up to 54 Mbps, or about half the speed of Fast Ethernet.
802.11b wireless Ethernet runs at speeds up to 11 Mbps, or approximately the
same speed as standard wired Ethernet. This type of network allows you the
freedom to move about your home or office with your notebook and move
computers to different locations without adding or moving network cables.
The two most common types of wireless Ethernet networks are access point
and peer-to-peer.
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.