NETGEAR ME103 - 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point User Manual page 32

User's Guide for the ME103 802.11b ProSafe Wireless Access Point
• Channel. This field identifies which operating frequency will be used. It should not be
necessary to change the wireless channel unless you notice interference problems or setting up
the ME103 near another access point. See
wireless channels.
– Access points use a fixed Channel. You can select the Channel used. This allows you to
choose a Channel which provides the least interference and best performance. In the USA
and Canada, 11 channels are available.
– If using multiple access points, it is better if adjacent access points use different Channels
to reduce interference. The recommended Channel spacing between adjacent access points
is 5 Channels (e.g. use Channels 1 and 6, or 6 and 11).
– In "Infrastructure" mode, wireless stations normally scan all Channels, looking for an
access point. If more than one access point can be used, the one with the strongest signal is
used. This can only happen when the various access points are using the same SSID.
• Wireless Network Name (SSID). The SSID is also known as the wireless network name.
Enter a value of up to 32 alphanumeric characters. In a setting where there is more than one
wireless network, different wireless network names provide a means for separating the traffic.
Any device you want to participate in a particular wireless network will need to use this SSID
for that network. The ME103 default SSID is: NETGEAR.
– A group of Wireless Stations and a single Access Point, all using the same ID (SSID),
form a Basic Service Set (BSS).
– Using the same SSID is essential. Devices with different SSIDs are unable to
communicate with each other. However, some Access Points allow connections from
Wireless Stations which have their SSID set to "any" or whose SSID is blank (null).
– A group of Wireless Stations, and multiple Access Points, all using the same ID (ESSID),
form an Extended Service Set (ESS).
– Different Access Points within an ESS can use different Channels. To reduce interference,
it is recommended that adjacent Access Points should use different channels.
– As wireless stations are physically moved through the area covered by an ESS, they will
automatically change to the access point which has the least interference or best
performance. This capability is called roaming. (Access points do not have or require
Roaming capabilities.)
2-11
"Wireless Channels" on page B-7
Basic Installation and Configuration
for more on