| Wireless
FAQS:: What is 802.11? 802.11 can mean 2 things: 1) The umbrella term for the IEEE 802.11 family of physical and software layer protocols OR 2) The first version of WLAN, ratified in 1997. This protocol offers 2Mbps in the 2.4GHz frequency. What is an Access Point? An access point is a device that both transmits and receives network data. Essentially, the wireless equivalent to aLAN hub, the AP receives, buffers and transmits data between the WLAN and the wired infrastructure. What is a wireless LAN bridge? Wireless LAN bridges are used to connect LANs in different buildings. A wireless LAN bridge connected to the network in one building can transmit and receive data from another bridge in an adjacent building, much like a point-to-point radio. Wireless LAN bridges provide an alternative to more expensive leased lines and underground cabling projects. Are 802.11b and 802.11g upward compatible with 802.11a? No. 802.11b and 802.11g devices cannot communicate directly to an 802.11a network. A dual-band access point can be used, but technically, these are two different networks in the same airspace, each able to access the network resources. Can I use an 802.11a card in an 802.11g network? No. The two types of networks are not compatible. While both have connection speeds of 54Mbps, they operate on different frequencies. Can cordless phones interfere with my wireless network? Yes. Depending on the protocol you are using, 2.4GHz phones, baby monitors, and microwave ovens can interfere with an 802.11b network. 802.11a networks operate in a different frequency range, where there is less interference. Can 802.11a and 802.11b be used on the same network? Yes. First, by using a dual-band AP. Second, by using two different access points these protocols can co-exist on the same network and access each other via a router. Will 802.11a replace 802.11b? No. Each of these protocols has its own strengths and weaknesses. As well, there are tens of millions of 802.11b products already in use. Can a product be upgraded from 802.11b to 802.11a or 802.11g? No. In general, products cannot be upgraded from one protocol to another. Each protocol uses very different technology, chipset and adheres to unique specifications. Will WEP slow down my wireless performance? Although the calculations required to encrypt data with WEP can impact the performance of your wireless network, it's generally seen only when running benchmarks, and not large enough to be noticeable in the course of normal network usage. The performance penalty on enabling WEP will generally be a little higher when using a router that incorporates a built-in WLAN access point, because of the added load of WEP encryption on a CPU that is already handling routing and switching functions for internet sharing. When using a stand-alone access point, the performance penalty is usually imperceptible. When using WEP, does encryption need to be at the same level? Yes. Encryption setting must be identical between all points on the wireless network. |
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