Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Although wireless networks do offer more freedom in terms of placing the switch/access
point, you should keep in mind the distances involved (generally up to 150 to 250 feet
indoors for 802.11b/g/n) and any walls or devices using the same 2.4GHz spectrum that
might interfere with the signal.
Tip
Decide where you plan to put your hub or switch before you buy prebuilt UTP wiring or
make your own; if you move the hub or switch, some of your wiring will no longer be the
correct length. Although excess lengths of UTP cable can be coiled and secured with cable
ties, cables that are too short should be replaced. You can buy 8P8C (RJ-45) connectors to
createonelongcablefromtwoshortcables,butyoumustensuretheconnectorsareCategory
5ifyouarerunningFastEthernet; somevendorsstill sellCategory 3connectors thatsupport
only 10Mbps. You're really better off replacing the too-short cable with one of the correct
length.
Wireless Ethernet Hardware
All types of 802.11 wireless networks have two basic components:
• Wireless access point (usually built-in to a router)
• Wireless network cards
An access point is a bookend-size device that uses one or more 8P8C (RJ-45) ports to
attach to a 10BASE-T or 10/100/1000 Ethernet network (if desired) and contains a radio
transceiver, encryption, and communications software. It translates conventional Ethernet
signals into wireless Ethernet signals that it broadcasts to wireless NICs on the network
and then performs the same role in reverse to transfer signals from wireless NICs to the
conventional Ethernet network.
Most people don't buy an access point as a separate stand-alone item, instead they would
purchase a router that has an access point built-in. Wireless routers normally include a
router,switch,andawirelessaccesspoint,butmayalsoincludeacable/DSLmodem,file/
print server, and other features.
Note
In SOHO networks that provide Internet access, the access point is usually incorporated into
a wireless router that also includes an Ethernet switch.
For coverage of a large area, you can use two or more access points and connect them to
an Ethernet switch. This enables users to roam inside a building without losing contact
with the network. Some access points can communicate directly with each other via radio
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