Planet WL-U357 [5/35] Chapter 1 introduction

Chapter 1 Introduction

Complying with the IEEE 802.11g standard, WL-U357 provides simple, reliable, high-speed wireless

connectivity for both desktop and laptop users. By combining two, state-of-the-art technologies—USB 2.0

and Super G— WL-U357 provides up to 108Mbps data rate in 2.4GHz unlicensed ISM band. Thus

makes WL-U357 more suitable for multimedia applications which required more bandwidth

Support of 64, 128 and 152-bit WEP encryption plus WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) high-level encryption

prevents your wireless communications from unauthorized access and ensures secure data transfer. The

WL-U357 is also backward compatible with 802.11b Access Points. Easy installation and Hot-plugging

offers full mobility and high availability, making the device a perfect choice for users who are getting tired

of running cables or in constant need of wireless access.

1.1 Features

 2.4GHz ISM band, unlicensed operation

 Wireless connectivity without the hassles and cost of running cables

 IEEE 802.11b/g standard compliant

 USB 2.0 A-type standard connector, compatible with USB 1.1

 Super G mode provides up to 108Mbps data rate

 Utilization of Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum plus OFDM modulation to provide robust,

interference-resistant solution in a multi-user environment

 Support of 64/128/152-bit WEP encryption and WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) high-level

encryption

 Support of Ad-Hoc / Infrastructure mode

 Support of most popular operating systems including Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP/Server

2003

 Plug-and -Play installation

1.2 Application

Infrastructure

The major difference between Infrastructure network and Ad-hoc wireless network is that the former

requires an Access point. For old buildings, open areas, or frequently changing environments, just install

the WL-U357 on your desktop or laptop, and thus you can get connected to the wired Ethernet through a

wireless Access Point. SOHO users can then access the Internet and share all kinds of data with the

other wired or wireless clients within the coverage of wireless signals. For enterprise users, the

installation of multiple Access Points to enlarge the coverage of wireless signals can provide wireless

users with seamless network access.

The Infrastructure mode is appropriate for enterprise-scale wireless access to a central database or

provides various wireless applications for mobile users.

Infrastructure mode also supports roaming capabilities for mobile users. More than one BSS can be

configured as an Extended Service Set (ESS). The continuous wireless network connectivity allows

users to roam freely within an ESS. All wireless clients using WL-U357 or other IEEE 802.11b compliant

wireless adapters within one ESS must be configured with the same ESS ID and to use the same radio