CNET CWR-854 - Manual (Page 66)

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Figure A2: Hardware Access Point.
Wireless connected computers using a Hardware Access Point.
Figure A3: Software Access Point.
Wireless connected computers using a Software Access Point.
Q3: Can I mix wireless equipment from different vendors?
Ans: Because most wireless networking hardware vendors support the 802.11 standard they can
inter operate. However, we recommend verification as the standard is a fairly recent one, and does
specify two different methods for wireless communications; Frequency Hopping (FH) and Direct
Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS or DS), which are not interoperable.
When purchasing wireless networking hardware from separate vendors be sure to obtain
guarantees from the vendors that the hardware will interoperate and follows the standards.
Within a short time we expect all new wireless cards, like Ethernet cards, to become inexpensive,
ubiquitous and totally interoperable.
Also of note is that the latest version of the standard defines 11mbps and 5.5mbps networking,
with support for the older standard 1mbps and 2mbps speeds. This provides some compatibility
with different or older equipment. Note that this new standard covers DS-type Networks, not FH
types.
Software access points such as InterGate which uses the wireless interface of the host computer
should have no compatibility issues with third party wireless hardware, as long as standards are
followed. Typically wireless hardware is identified to the software as a network interface, and
therefore can be used in the same way as any other network card.
Q4:If my computer is connected to a wireless LAN, can it communicate with computers on a wired
LAN as well?
Ans: To do this you will need some sort of bridge between the wireless and wired network. This
can be accomplished either with a hardware access point or a software access point. Hardware
access points are available with various types of network interfaces, such as Ethernet or Token
Ring, but typically require extra hardware to be purchased if your networking requirements
change.
If networking requirements go beyond just interconnecting a wired network to a small wireless
network, a software access point may be the best solution.
A software access point does not limit the type or number of network interfaces you use. It may