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There are three ways for assigning IP addresses to your computers and
Access Points:
1. Auto IP
2. DHCP
3. static IP addresses
For now, these are the most important differences:
1. With Auto IP, the computers automatically select an IP address. This
is convenient, because you don’t have to do anything. But it can take a
while for the computers to find an unused address.
2. With DHCP, a server gives each computer its address. You will have
to set up the DHCP server (one is built into the Access Point), but
once set up, it takes care of all addressing issues.
3. If you use static addresses, you’ll have to give each computer an
address manually. This is more work than the other methods. Only
use static addressing if you really need it.
In general, Auto IP and DHCP are the easiest to use. In an existing
network, you may want to keep the existing addressing method.
4.3 Connecting an Access Point directly to a computer
You can connect an Access Point directly to a computer 1, and use it to
make a wireless connection from a laptop computer 2.
Figure 4-1 Connecting an Access Point directly to a computer
Install the components of your network:
1. Install a network card in the computer 1 and install the software for the
card.
2. Install the Access Point.
Note: You need to use a crossover cable to connect the Access Point to
the computer.
3. Connect the Access Point to the computer, using the crossover cable.
4. Prepare the wireless client(s): install their network card and software.
