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Wireless Networking
Network Administration |
Network
Basics |
How
Networks Work |
Crossover Cables |Wireless Networks
Wireless networking is a type of
networking that has grown rapidly since its introduction. Instead of
data being carried using a wire, the data is broadcast through the air, like a
radio transmission or wireless telephone signal. Obviously, no wires need
be installed where this type of network was placed, which
appeals to many people. Wireless networks are usually also very reliable,
depending on your situation. Right now, wireless networks can transmit data at a maximum of
11-54Mbps (megabytes per second). The signal, because it travels through the
air, is subject to types of interference that wired networks are not. And,
even though great strides have been made in wireless security, the signal is
being sent through the air and can be intercepted, just as wireless phone
transmissions can be.
Key Benefits:
- The
flexibility
of being able to move work stations around or even to a different location
without having to re-wire!
- Simplify
your
existing network by eliminating unnecessary
hubs or routers. Remember the simpler the structure, the less chance of
something going wrong.
- Away from the home or office with your
laptop?....simply walk within the wireless network environment with your laptop and your wireless
card can automatically log into your network.
- Adding workstations?
Simply add a
wireless NIC to the new station, configure the software and you are done.
- Share Broadband Internet access across the network
with a wireless Router.
- WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy), MAC address control
and user authentication to ensure a secure network
connection.
- Compliant with IEEE 802.11a,b,g Standards
Common Misconceptions about Wireless
Networks:
- It will be slower than a wired network---Fast, secure data transmission at 11-54mbps with
minimal
dilution in speed when multiple stations are logged on.
- It is too expensive---In the long run
you are actually saving money by eliminating the costly material and
labor necessary to wire a system. And if you are converting an existing
network, it is easier than you think.
- My server / workstations are too far apart--- By installing Access Points or Signal Boosters which relay the wireless
signal, the distance is rarely a problem. Operating on a 2.4Ghz &
5Ghz,
Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) frequency, the wireless signal travels through walls and floors. If you are
within 325 feet of the other stations or server....no Access Point is
necessary at all.
- I can not share my DSL or Cable connection---A Wireless
Router will allow wireless LAN users to share a single Internet Connection while
providing the safety and security of port blocking, packet filtering, and a
natural firewall. A single Ethernet port allows a DSL or Cable Modem to be
connected and shared through either its single local Ethernet port or via
its integrated Wireless IEEE 802.11b compliant Access Point.
Converting an Existing Network to all
wireless or combine Wired and
Wireless:
You can combine wired and wireless structure on
the same network or completely convert to wireless.
Printers:
Printers can also be part of the wireless
environment.
As Wireless technologies continue to penetrate
the mainstream, the traditional wired network may become obsolete in the next
several years. Keep your company on the cutting edge by installing a wireless
network, or convert your existing wired network and start experiencing the
flexibility of wireLESS now!
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