Wireless Ad-Hoc Networks - Enterasys RoamAbout Installation And User Manual

The RoamAbout Wireless Ethernet Adapter transforms wired devices (for example.,
desktop computers and printers) into wireless devices. The RoamAbout Wireless Ethernet
Adapter is easily integrated into your existing wireless network.
The RoamAbout Wireless Ethernet Adapter can be used in the following wireless
topologies:
•
Wireless infrastructure networks, which require the RoamAbout AP.
•
Wireless Ad-hoc networks, which do not require the RoamAbout AP.
Wireless Infrastructure Network
In a wireless infrastructure network, wireless clients communicate with an AP connected to
a wired LAN. A RoamAbout wireless infrastructure can support clients with various
supported operating systems. Infrastructure mode is often used in systems that have heavy
network traffic and want to utilize the filtering capabilities of the AP.
The AP remains as a stationary part of the wireless LAN, unlike individual Ethernet Adapter
units that can be physically moved throughout the wireless LAN. The Ethernet Adapter
synchronizes communication with the AP. Individual Ethernet Adapter units do not
communicate directly with each other. All communication between multiple Ethernet
Adapter units, or between an Ethernet Adapter unit and a wired network client, go through
the AP.
Multiple APs can be used to extend the coverage area.
Figure 2-1 shows an example of an infrastructure network.
Configuration Overview
Chapter 2
2-1