Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
with surge suppression or fi ltering), and the adapters create a wired Ethernet connection
between the device and other devices that are also similarly connected within the same
location. Powerline Ethernet is most commonly used in homes to connect gaming devices,
home computers, and home theatre systems.
FIGURE 3.13
These HomePlug adapters connect to power outlets
Wireless Networking
Wireless networking uses radio (sound) waves to transmit data, much like a cordless
telephone. With wireless Ethernet, nearly everything is the same as with wired Ethernet
from a user perspective, except that instead of cables, radio signals are used.
Wi-Fi: The 802.11 Standards
There are several wireless networking technologies, but the most popular of these is
Wireless Fidelity
, also known as
Wi-Fi
. Wi-Fi is a nickname for a collection of standards
known as IEEE 802.11.
An organization called
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
controls,
among other things, the various wireless networking standards. The standards governing
networking are contained in the 802 range of numbering, and the standards governing wireless
networking are in the 802.11 range. Table 3.3 lists the 802.11 standards you may encounter.
TABLE 3.3
IEE 802.11 wireless networking standards
Range (Indoors/Outdoors)
in Meters
Standard
Frequency
Top Speed
802.11a
5 GHz
22 Mbps
15 / 34
802.11b
2.4 GHz
11 Mbps
46 / 92
802.11g
2.4 GHz
22 Mbps
46 / 92
802.11n
2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
600 Mbps
70 / 250
