Ad-Hoc Versus Infrastructure Mode; Infrastructure Mode - Linksys WPC11 User Manual

Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode

Unlike wired networks, wireless networks have two different modes in which
they may be set up: Infrastructure
modes depends on whether or not the wireless network needs to share data or
peripherals with a wired network or not.
If the computers on the wireless network need to be accessible by a wired net-
work or need to share a peripheral, such as a printer, with the wired network
computers, the wireless network should be set up in the Infrastructure mode.
The basis of Infrastructure mode centers around an access point, which serves
as the main point of communications in a wireless network. Access points
transmit data to PCs equipped with wireless network adapters, which can roam
within a certain
radial range of
the access point.
Multiple access
points can be
arranged to work
in succession to
extend the roam-
ing range, and
can be set up to
c o m m u n i c a t e
with your Ethernet
hardware as well.
If the wireless network is relatively small and needs to share resources only
with the other computers on the wireless network, then the Ad-Hoc mode can
be used. Ad-Hoc mode allows computers equipped with wireless transmitters
and receivers to communicate directly with each other, eliminating the need for
an access point. The drawback of this mode is in the fact that, in Ad-Hoc mode,
wireless-equipped computers are not able to communicate with computers on
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Instant Wireless
TM
and Ad-Hoc. Choosing between these two
a wired network.
And, of course, com-
munication between
the wireless-equipped
computers is limited
by the distance and
interference directly
between them.
Series Network PC Card

Infrastructure Mode

1. If you have chosen Infrastructure mode, the following screen will appear.
If you have chosen Ad-Hoc mode, skip to the next section.
You will be prompted to enter an SSID value in the box provided. The
SSID may be up to 32 characters in length and may include any character
on the keyboard. All SSID values on your wireless network must match. If
you are unsure, use the default value of "linksys." Then, click the Next but-
ton. Note: All characters are case-sensitive.
2. The next screen to appear will be the Review Settings screen. Verify that
all the settings are correct and click the Next button to continue.
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