Types Of Wireless Networks; Tips For Using Network Adapters - Lexmark 13R0243 - X4875 USB 2.0/PictBridge/ 802.11g All-in-One Color Printer Scanner Copier Photo Network Manual

Types of wireless networks

Networks can operate in one of two modes: infrastructure or ad hoc. Lexmark recommends setting up a network in
infrastructure mode using the installation CD that came with the printer.
A wireless network where each device communicates with others through a wireless access point (wireless router)
is set up in infrastructure mode. All devices must have valid IP addresses and share the same SSID and channel.
In addition, they must share the same SSID and channel as the wireless access point (wireless router).
A simple type of wireless network is one where a PC with a wireless adapter communicates directly with a printer
equipped for wireless networking. This mode of communication is called ad hoc. A device in this type of network
must have a valid IP address and be set to ad hoc mode. The wireless print server must also be configured with the
same SSID and channel.
Characteristics
Communication
Security
Range
Speed
Requirements for all
devices on the network
Unique IP address for each
device
Mode set to
Same SSID
Same channel
Infrastructure mode is the recommended setup method because it has:
•
Increased network security
•
Increased reliability
•
Faster performance
•
Easier setup

Tips for using network adapters

•
Make sure the adapter connections are secure.
•
Make sure the computer is turned on.
•
Make sure you entered the correct IP address.
Infrastructure
Through wireless access point (wireless
router)
More security options
Determined by range and number of
access points
Usually faster
Yes
Infrastructure mode
Yes, including the wireless access point
(wireless router)
Yes, including the wireless access point
(wireless router)
Ad hoc
Directly between devices
Restricted to range of individual devices
on network
Usually slower
Yes
Ad hoc mode
Yes
Yes
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