Troubleshooting; Wireless Basics - D-Link DIR-457 User Manual

Appendix A - Wireless Basics

Troubleshooting

This chapter provides solutions to problems that can occur during the installation and operation of the DIR-457/DIR-
457U. Read the following descriptions if you are having problems. (The examples below are illustrated in Windows
®
XP. If you have a different operating system, the screen shots on your computer will look similar to the following
examples.) Please refer to the Quick Installation Troubleshooting section.

Wireless Basics

D-Link wireless products are based on industry standards to provide easy-to-use and compatible high-speed wireless
connectivity within your home, business or public access wireless networks. Strictly adhering to the IEEE standard,
the D-Link wireless family of products will allow you to securely access the data you want, when and where you want
it. You will be able to enjoy the freedom that wireless networking delivers.
A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a cellular computer network that transmits and receives data with radio signals
instead of wires. Wireless LANs are used increasingly in both home and office environments, and public areas such
as airports, coffee shops and universities. Innovative ways to utilize WLAN technology are helping people to work and
communicate more efficiently. Increased mobility and the absence of cabling and other fixed infrastructure have proven
to be beneficial for many users.
Wireless users can use the same applications they use on a wired network. Wireless adapter cards used on laptop
and desktop systems support the same protocols as Ethernet adapter cards.
Under many circumstances, it may be desirable for mobile network devices to link to a conventional Ethernet LAN in
order to use servers, printers or an Internet connection supplied through the wired LAN. A Wireless Router is a device
used to provide this link.
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