Using A Wireless Ethernet Network - Gateway 200ARC User Manual

Chapter 11: Networking Your Computer

Using a wireless Ethernet network

A wireless Ethernet network is ideal for creating a home or office network or
adding mobility to an existing wired Ethernet.
Warning
Important
Wireless Ethernet is available at two different speeds. IEEE 802.11a and
IEEE 802.11g wireless Ethernet run at speeds up to 54 Mbps, or about half the
speed of Fast Ethernet. 802.11b wireless Ethernet runs at speeds up to 11 Mbps,
or approximately the same speed as standard wired Ethernet. This type of
network allows you the freedom to move about your home or office with your
notebook. For example, you can take your notebook from your home office to
your patio without having an Ethernet jack available.
Important
The two most common types of wireless Ethernet networks are access point
and peer-to-peer.
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Radio frequency wireless communication can interfere
with equipment on commercial aircraft. Current aviation
regulations require wireless devices to be turned off while
traveling in an airplane. IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, and
IEEE 802.11g communication devices are examples of
devices that provide wireless communication. For
instructions to turn wireless Ethernet on and off, see
"Turning your wireless Ethernet on or off" on page 193.
If your notebook came equipped with an internal radio
frequency wireless device, see "Safety, Regulatory, and
Legal Information" on page 275 for general wireless
regulatory and safety guidelines. To find out if your
notebook has an internal wireless device, check the label
(see "Identifying your model" on page 9).
The speed of a wireless network is related to signal
strength. Signal strength is affected by the distance
between your wireless network devices, by radio
interference, and by interference from natural obstructions
such as walls, floors, and doors.
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