Wireless Lan Network; Overview; Ssid; Channel - ZyXEL Communications ZyAIR B-220 User Manual

This chapter provides background information on wireless LAN network.

2.1 Overview

This section describes the wireless LAN network terms and applications.

2.1.1 SSID

The SSID (Service Set Identity) is a unique name shared among all wireless devices in a
wireless network. Wireless devices must have the same SSID to communicate with each other.

2.1.2 Channel

A radio frequency used by a wireless device is called a channel.

2.1.3 Transmission Rate (Tx Rate)

The ZyAIR provides various transmission (data) rate options for you to select. Options include
Fully Auto, 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps, 5.5 Mbps and 11 Mbps. In most networking scenarios, the
factory default Fully Auto setting proves the most efficient. This setting allows your ZyAIR to
operate at the maximum transmission (data) rate. When the communication quality drops
below a certain level, the ZyAIR automatically switches to a lower transmission (data) rate.
Transmission at lower data speeds is usually more reliable. However, when the
communication quality improves again, the ZyAIR gradually increases the transmission (data)
rate again until it reaches the highest available transmission rate. You can select any of the
above options. If you wish to balance speed versus reliability, select 11 Mbps in a networking
environment where you are certain that all wireless devices can communicate at the highest
transmission (data) rate. 1 Mbps or 2 Mbps are used often in networking environments where
the range of the wireless connection is more important than speed.

2.1.4 Wireless Network Application

Wireless LAN works in either of the two modes: ad-hoc and infrastructure.
Chapter 2 Wireless LAN Network

Wireless LAN Network

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