D-Link DWL-810+ [7/29] Wireless basics

3. Wireless Basics

With the DWL-810+ you can provide instant wireless access to the LAN

(Local Area Network) for Ethernet-enabled devices. With an Ethernet (CAT5)

cable simply connect the DWL-810+ to the Ethernet port of a network device

(such as a printer or web camera) to establish a wireless connection with

another device equipped with a wireless network adapter set to Ad-Hoc

mode.

If you are planning a larger wireless network, D-Link offers a wide array of

products for most of your wireless local area network (WLAN) needs. In this

section, we discuss typical WLANs and their components. Much of the

advice given here may be helpful in setting up the DWL-810+. It may also

give you some ideas, if you plan to expand your wireless network.

D-Link wireless products are based on industry standards to provide easy-to-

use and compatible high-speed wireless connectivity within your home,

business or wherever a wireless network is available. D-Link wireless

products will allow you access to the data you want, when and where you

want it. No longer will you be limited to one location or forced to run new

wiring through your home or office. You will be able to enjoy the freedom that

wireless networking brings.

A WLAN is a cellular computer network that transmits and receives data with

radio signals instead of wires. WLANs are used increasingly in both home

and office environments, and public areas such as airports, coffee shops and

universities. Innovative ways to utilize WLAN technology are helping people

to work and communicate more efficiently. Increased mobility with the

absence of cabling and other fixed infrastructure has proven to be beneficial

for many users.

Wireless users can use the same applications they use on a wired network.

Wireless adapter cards used on laptop and desktop systems, support the

same protocols as Ethernet adapter cards. For most users, there is no

noticeable functional difference between a wired Ethernet computer and a

wireless computer equipped with a wireless adapter other than the added

benefit of the ability to roam within a wireless-cell. Under many

circumstances, it may be desirable for mobile network devices to link to a

conventional Ethernet LAN in order to use servers, printers or an Internet

connection supplied through the wired LAN. A Wireless Access Point (AP) is

one device used to provide this link.