NETGEAR WG602 54 Mbps 802.11g Wireless Access Point

NETGEAR WG602 54 Mbps 802.11g Wireless Access Point Review

NETGEAR WG602 54 Mbps 802.11g Wireless Access Point Feature

• 802.11g access point offers an easy way to set up a wireless network
• Delivers up to 54 Mbps of wireless throughput
• Supports 128-bit WEP for enhanced security
• Backwards compatible with 802.11b wireless networks
• Device measures 6.9 x 1.1 x 4.7 inches (WxHxD)

Amazon.com Product Description

The NETGEAR WG602 54 Mbps 802.11g Wireless Access Point offers: 802.11g wireless network access point for home and office. Security options including WPA and 128-bit WEP encryption. A removable antenna for maximum flexibility.

The NETGEAR WG602 54 Mbps 802.11g Wireless Access Point lets you easily set up a wireless network in your home so you can share a single internet connection with everyone in your household at speeds up to 54 Mbps. Note that to share an internet connection you will need a router into which you can plug the WG602 access point. If you do not have a router, consider NETGEAR’s Wireless-G Router WGR614."

The WG602 offers speeds up to 54 Mbps with the 802.11g wireless standard. View larger. View back.

Easy Setup
The WG602 makes it easy for even a novice to set up a wireless network: just plug the included Ethernet cable from your LAN into the device and insert the included CD into any computer on the network, which will provide step-by-step instructions. The WG602 offers a myriad of placement options by including a stand for vertical placement and slots on the bottom for mounting on a wall or ceiling. The default 2 dBi omnidirectional antenna can be removed and you can install an external antenna most suited for your needs onto the standard SMA connector.

The WG602 employs a web-based interface for configuration, allowing you to adjust settings such as the beacon interval, RTS threshold, and DTIM interval. The firmware is also upgradeable via the web interface so you can be sure your access point will always be up-to-date.

Fast and Secure
Supporting the 802.11g standard, the NETGEAR WG602 offers data speeds of up to 54 Mbps, making it possible to share a broadband internet connection, stream music without hiccups, watch videos with less load time, and videoconference without problems. Downloading files is up to five times faster than it was with 802.11b. If you still have computers that use 802.11b, don't fret as the access point is backwards compatible with the older wireless standard and can be set so all your computers can connect to the network and the WG602 will automatically figure out the connection type and work accordingly.

The WG602 offers many security options to ensure your data is private. Both 40/64-bit and 128-bit WEP encryption is available, as well as Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA2-PSK). You can also use MAC address authentication to allow only authorized users onto the network.

Bridge and Repeater Mode
In addition to functioning as an access point, the WG602 can also be used as a bridge and as a repeater. Used as a bridge, the device allows you to connect two LANS wirelessly; as a repeater, your wireless signal's range is extended so even the remote corners of your home or office can be covered.

The NETGEAR WG602 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point is backed by a 1-year warranty.

What's in the Box
WG602 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point, vertical stand, power adapter, Ethernet cable, resource CD, user's guide, warranty/support information card.
54Mbps - Wireless Access Point

Wireless G Access Point w/ P.O.E. and Rangebooster.

Wireless G Access Point w/ P.O.E. and Rangebooster. Review

Wireless G Access Point w/ P.O.E. and Rangebooster. Feature

• Former Linksys Business Series
• Cisco WAP200 Wireless-G Access Point - PoE/Rangebooster
• Standards-based PoE (IEEE 802.3af) or external DC power
• Standards: IEEE802.11g, IEEE802.11b, IEEE802.3, IEEE802.3u, IEEE802.3af
• Support for WMM provides improved QoS over wireless connections for better video and voice performance.

The Linksys WAP200 Access Point lets you connect Wireless-G (802.11g) or Wireless-B (802.11b) devices to your wired network so you can add PCs to the network with no cabling hassle. Power over Ethernet support makes it easy to install -- you can mount the Access Point anywhere, even without ready access to a power plug. With appropriate Power Over Ethernet support at the other end, you only need to run one cable to the Access Point to deliver both data and power. Of course, you can also use the included AC adapter if your installation point has power available nearby. Moreover, the integrated QoS features provide consistent voice and video quality on both the wired and wireless networks, enabling the deployment of business qualilty VoIP and video applications.

Asus Wireless-G Access Point (WL-330GE)

Asus Wireless-G Access Point (WL-330GE) Review

Asus Wireless-G Access Point (WL-330GE) Feature

• Standards: IEEE802.11g, IEEE802.11b, IEEE802.11d, IEEE802.3, IEEE802.3u, IEEE802.1X, WPA, WMM, IPv4, IPv6
• Wireless: 802.11g/802.11b Compliant; Operation Channels: Ch1~11 for N. America, Ch1~14 Japan, Ch1~13 Europe (ETSI)
• WMM: WMM (Wi-Fi Multimedia) support; MAC Access Control; RADIUS Setting: Required in Radius with 802.1x, WPA, WPA2 mode
• Guest Account: Provide a second SSID for wireless access in Gateway mode
• Receiver Sensitivity: -95±1dBm@1Mbps, -85±1dBm@11Mbps, -73±1dBm@54Mbps; Antenna: 2x internal IFA antennas, Gain in 1.25dBi
• Ethernet Port: 1 x RJ45 for 10/100 BaseT; Support Ethernet and 802.3 with max. bit rate 10/100Mbps and auto cross-over function (MDI-X)
• Infrastructure Mode: AP Only; WDS; Hybrid; Client; URE; AfterBurner; BroadRange
• Port Trigger: Open certain TCP or UDP ports to communicate with the computers connected to WL330gE
• Power: AC input- 100~240V(50~60Hz); DC output- 5V with max. 1A current; Reset Button: Push for 5 seconds to restore factory setting
• Range: Indoor 130ft (40m), semi-open 330ft (100m); Outdoor (LOS, Line-Of-Sight); 1500ft (457m)
• SSID Isolation: Support SSID hiding; Wireless Separation: Prevent wireless clients from communicating with each other
• Transmit Power: 11b- 19±1.5 dBm ; 11g- 17±1.5 dBm at nominal temperature
• Utilities: Device Discovery, support XP, 2000, Vista; Firmware Restoration, support XP, 2000, Vista
• Virtual DMZ: Expose one computer to Internet, so that all the inbounds packets will be redirected to the exposed computer
• Wi-Fi Security: 64/128-bit WEP, WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, WPA-Enterprise, WPA2-Enterprise, Radius with 802.1x

Asus WL-330gE Smart Wireless-G Access Point WL-330gE. 4-in-one portable wireless router. Innovative Integration of Access Point, Ethernet Adapter, Gateway and Universal Repeater

Alfa 1000mw 1W High Power 802.11 b/g Wireless-G IEEE 802.11g/b Wireless LAN Access Point also Supports WDS (Wireless Distributed System) bridge mode

Alfa 1000mw 1W High Power 802.11 b/g Wireless-G IEEE 802.11g/b Wireless LAN Access Point also Supports WDS (Wireless Distributed System) bridge mode Review

Alfa 1000mw 1W High Power 802.11 b/g Wireless-G IEEE 802.11g/b Wireless LAN Access Point also Supports WDS (Wireless Distributed System) bridge mode Feature

• High Output power 1W and High data rate up to 54Mbps network speed
• Auto rate fallback in case of obstacles or interferences
• Supports WPA / WPA2 security enhanced function and Supports WDS(Wireless Distributed System) bridge mode
• Supports roaming link integrity and Provides station mode to act as a wireless LAN client station
• Provides 64/128 bit key length WEP data encryption

IEEE 802.11g/b Wireless LAN Access Point
Acting as a bridge between the wired Ethernet and the 2.4GHz IEEE 802.11g/b wireless LAN, this wireless LAN access point can let your wireless LAN client stations access both the wired and the wireless network nodes
WDS Bridge Mode (Repeater Mode)
The WDS (Wireless Distributed System) function lets this access point act as an wireless LAN access point and repeater at the same time. Users can use this feature to build up a large wireless network in a large space like airports, hotels and schools ...etc. This feature is also useful when users want to bridge networks between buildings where it is impossible to deploy network cable connections between these buildings.
Station Mode (AP Client Mode)
By setting this access point into station mode and connecting to a network device's Ethernet port, it can let a network device that originally only supports wired Ethernet access the wireless LAN easily without changing any configuration.
Wireless LAN Security
Except for the basic security control by using ESSID and 64/128 bit key length WEP encryption, this access point also supports the advanced security features, like MAC access control and hide ESSID. It provides a total solution for you to build up a secure wireless LAN network environment that can prevent from all kinds of hacker intrusion.
Detachable Antenna
Standard RP-SMA antenna connector that can let you apply allkinds of high gain antennas. This can help you enlarge your wireless LAN coverage.

SPECIFICATION
Standard: 802.11b/g(Wireless), 802.3(10BaseT), 802.3u(100BaseT)
Data Transfer Rate: 54Mbps(Wireless), 100Mbps(Ethernet)
Modulation Method: CCK (802.11b), OFDM (802.11g)
Frequency Band: 2.4GHz - 2.497GHz ISM Band, DSSS
Output Power: 27dBm@OFDM , 30dBm@CCK
Security: 64 bit/128 bit WEP, WPA, WPA2
Dimension: 135x93x30 mm (LxWxH)

Linksys by Cisco WAP4400N Wireless-N Access Point - PoE

Linksys by Cisco WAP4400N Wireless-N Access Point - PoE Review

Linksys by Cisco WAP4400N Wireless-N Access Point - PoE Feature

• Former Linksys Business Series
• Cisco WAP4400N Wireless-N Access Point - PoE
• Compliance with IEEE draft 802.11n standards while remaining backwards compatible with 802.11b and b devices
• Support for WMM provides improved QoS over wireless connections for better video and voice performance
• Standards-based POE (IEEE 802.3af) or External DC power

With the growth in high bandwidth applications, such as storage and video in the work place, network performance is essential. Wireless technology is no longer lagging behind wired performance. The Linksys Business Series WAP4400N Wireless-N Access Point answers your growing business' need for access, speed and security. Using the very latest wireless networking technology, Wireless-N (draft 802.11n), Multiple In, Multiple Out (MIMO) technology multiplies the effective data rate by overlaying the signals of multiple radios. The Linksys Wireless-N Access Point lets you connect Wireless-N (802.11n), Wireless-G (802.11g) or Wireless-B (802.11b) devices to your wired network so you can add PCs to the network with no cabling hassle. Power over Ethernet (PoE) support makes the Access Point easy to install. You can mount the Access Point anywhere, even without ready access to a power plug. With appropriate PoE support at the other end, you only need to run one cable to the Access Point to deliver both data and power. Operating Channels - 11 North America, 13 Most of Europe (ETSI and Japan) Receiver Sensitivity - 11.n 300Mbps at -69dbM, 11.g 54Mbps at -73dBm, 11.b 11Mbps at -88dBM Security - WEP/WPA/WPA2 WEP 64bit/128bit, WPA-PSK, WPA2-PSK, WPA-ENT, WPA2-ENT Linux Operating System System Requirements - 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n Wireless Adapter With TCP/IP Protocol Installed Per PC, Switch/Router with Power Over Ethernet (PoE) Support Or PoE Injector when used with PoE & Web-Based Configuration Java-Enabled Web Browser Dimensions - Width 7.80 x Height 5.16 x Depth 7.80-inches (198 x 131 x 198 mm) Weight - 0.84 pounds (38 grams)

Please note: A new firmware, which resolves wireless connectivity issues and other known bugs, has been released on www.linksys.com.

ZyXEL 300 Mbps Wireless N Access Point, Ethernet Client, Universal Repeater, and Range Extender (WAP3205)

ZyXEL 300 Mbps Wireless N Access Point, Ethernet Client, Universal Repeater, and Range Extender (WAP3205) Review

ZyXEL 300 Mbps Wireless N Access Point, Ethernet Client, Universal Repeater, and Range Extender (WAP3205) Feature

• 802.11n certified with Data Transfer Rate of up to 300 Mbps
• Multiple SSID for Separating Access Privileges (Secured and Guest)
• WPS Button for Quick and Easy Wireless Security Setup
• Secure Wireless Communications with WEP/WPA/WPA2
• Backward Compatibility with the 802.11b/g Standard
• 802.11n Draft-certified with data transfer rate of up to 300 Mbps
• WPS button for quick and easy wreless security setup

WAP3205 is more than just another 300Mbps access point, it's a multifunction 11n tool that can be used in a variety of scenarios. In addition to Access Point mode, it can also be a Universal Wireless Repeater, extending the range of your existing network. Unlike other repeaters, the WAP3205's extender mode works with the latest WPA/WPA2 security technologies, so security doesn't have to suffer when extending your network. The WAP3205 also has the ability to function as a wireless bridge, allowing you to connect non-wireless network compatible devices to your existing network. Simply plug in your Ethernet based TIVO, Smart TV, Blue Ray player, network storage device (NAS), or game system into the WAP3205, and it can now join your wireless network. No software or drivers to be installed. With an 11n compatible data transfer rate of up to 300Mbps*, which is 6 times faster than 11g, you can enjoy high-speed network connection and high-definition video streaming with no jitters or dropped calls. It also works with your existing 802.11b and 802.11g network devices. Some wired devices such as modems, set-top boxes, digital media adapters and storage devices might not be natively wireless capable. In order to connect these without additional wiring, driver installation or configuration, just plug the Ethernet cable into the WAP3205 and connect to another wired device to get connected wirelessly. With the built-in Universal Repeater mode, WAP3205 can connect to most popular access points or wireless routers while simultaneously acting as an access point to provide wireless connectivity to all other wireless devices such as notebooks. In other words, WAP3205 can extend the wireless coverage to the entire home premise and enable all wireless devices to link to the existing network this is especially helpful for larger home environments. Since this is all done wirelessly, there is no need to run additional Ethernet cables to extend your network

NETGEAR 5 GHz Wireless-N HD Access Point/Bridge (WNHDE111)

NETGEAR 5 GHz Wireless-N HD Access Point/Bridge (WNHDE111) Review

NETGEAR 5 GHz Wireless-N HD Access Point/Bridge (WNHDE111) Feature

• Creates a 5 GHz Wireless-N access point by connecting to an existing router/gateway
• More wireless channels, less interference and better connections using 5 GHz Wireless-N band
• Boosts wireless performance of notebooks with embedded Wireless-N¿
• Automatic Quality of Service (QoS) ensures prioritization of voice, video and gaming traffic
• Device measures 8.9 x 1.5 x 6.8 inches (WxHxD)
• Boosts wireless performance of notebooks with embedded Wireless

The NETGEAR 5 GHz Wireless-N HD Access Point/Bridge WNHDE111 offers: Use of the 5 GHz frequency for less interference. Wireless-N draft specifications for the fastest wireless data transfers. Automatic Quality of Service (QoS) that prioritizes voice, video, and gaming traffic.

The NETGEAR WNHDE111 5 GHz Wireless-N HD Access Point/Bridge lets you create a 5 GHz Wireless-N access point by simply connecting it to an existing router/gateway. The resulting wireless network lets you transfer data at the highest possible Wireless-N speeds, making it an ideal solution for network gaming and streaming HD videos. By utilizing patented metamaterial antenna technology, the WNHDE111 offers a speed and range far surpassing the older Wireless-G standard.

By operating on the less crowded 5 GHz frequency, wireless connections are stronger and faster. View larger.

Easy Setup
Simply connect the WNHDE111 to your router/gateway. Setup is easily and securely done with a simple "Push 'N Connect" feature using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS), which eliminates the need to remember or input security password keys. The device automatically configures itself to access point or bridge mode depending on the type of Ethernet enabled device it connects to.

You can easily extend your wireless network by purchasing more WNHDE111 units, or start with the NETGEAR HD/Gaming 5 GHz Wireless-N Networking Kit.

Minimal Interference = Outstanding Performance
Most wireless devices today, such as Wi-Fi devices, cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, microwaves, and baby monitors, operate on the 2.4 GHz frequency, creating a lot of traffic and interference. The WNHDE111, however, operates on the 5 GHz band, which has up to 23 free channels and avoids the interference from most other devices.

The WNHDE111 complies with the latest Wireless-N draft specification for the fastest possible Wireless-N speeds. Automatic Quality of Service (QoS) ensures prioritization of voice, video and gaming traffic. It also supports wireless "ad-hoc" mode for wireless LAN peer-to-peer gaming and supports multicast point-to-multi-point HD video streaming.

The WNHDE111 supports WiFi Protected Access (WPA2-PSK, WPA-PSK), and 64-bit and 128-bit WEP encryption and is backed by a 1-year warranty.

What's in the Box
WNHDE111 5 GHz Wireless-N HD Access Point/Bridge, stand, Ethernet cable, setup CD, power adapter, and warranty/support information card.

The WNHDE111 avoids interference from 2.4 GHz wireless devices.

Adding Wireless-N to your existing home network is simple. View larger.

The WNHDE111 is a 5 GHz Wireless-N access point that connects to any existing router/gateway for more wireless channels, better connections, and less interference. Notebooks with embedded Wireless-N enjoy increased wireless performance. Automatic Quality of Service (QoS) ensures prioritization of voice, video and gaming traffic for seamless simultaneous task handling. Setup is made simple through plug-and-play, automatic configuration, while Push `N Connect using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) ensures an easy, secure Internet connection. Support of wireless ad-hoc mode enables wireless LAN peer-to-peer gaming and HD video streaming is provided by multicast point-to-multi-point support. Multiple bridge connection2 enables expanded wireless networking.

TRENDnet 54Mbps Wireless G Access Point TEW-430APB (Blue)

TRENDnet 54Mbps Wireless G Access Point TEW-430APB (Blue) Review

TRENDnet 54Mbps Wireless G Access Point TEW-430APB (Blue) Feature

• Network Interface - Fast Ethernet, Ethernet
• Build-in Switch Interface - Ethernet
• Dimensions - 124 x 86 x 40 mm

TRENDnets TEW-430APB Wireless Access Point is todays link to Wireless Technology. Compliant with the IEEE Wireless Networking Standard 802.11g, it provides Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) operation for transparent bridging and roaming capabilities for wireless nodes. The TEW-430APB also provides WDS bridging functions, allowing users to connect two or more Access Points together, wirelessly. With TRENDnets Wireless Access Point and Wireless Network Adapters, users can connect to Ethernet/Fast Ethernet LAN at home or office to access network resources such as hard drives, CD-ROM/DVD drives, network printers, and Internet connection - with coverage up to 300 meters.

Alfa 2000mw 2W High Power 802.11 b/g Wireless-G Broadband Wireless access Router - Supports the AP / Bridge / WDS / AP+WDS Functions

Alfa 2000mw 2W High Power 802.11 b/g Wireless-G Broadband Wireless access Router - Supports the AP / Bridge / WDS / AP+WDS Functions Review

Alfa 2000mw 2W High Power 802.11 b/g Wireless-G Broadband Wireless access Router - Supports the AP / Bridge / WDS / AP+WDS Functions Feature

• Complies with IEEE 802.11b/g standard for 2.4GHz Wireless LAN.
• Support 64-bit and 128-bit WEP, WPA, WPA2, encryption/decryption and WPA with Radius.
• Support UPnP for automatic Internet access and Dynamic DNS service.
• Supports the AP / Bridge/ WDS/ AP+WDS features and functions
• Security 64/128-bit WEP, WPA(TKIP with IEEE 802.1x), WPA2, AES

* Complies with IEEE 802.11b/g standard for 2.4GHz Wireless LAN.
* Support 64-bit 128-bit WEP, WPA, WPA2, encryption/decryption and WPA with Radius.
* Support IEEE 802.1x Authentication, IAPP, WDS. and IEEE 802.3x full duplex flow control on 10/100M Ethernet interface.
* Support DHCP server to provide clients auto IP addresses assignment and DHCP client, static IP, PPPoE, PPTP of WAN Interface.
* Support firewall security with port filtering, IP filtering, MAC filtering, port forwarding, trigger port and DMZ hosting functions. WEB based management and configuration.
* Support UPnP for automatic Internet access and Dynamic DNS service and Support NTP client service and Log table and remote Log service.
* Setup Wizard mode, Supports Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection.
* Supports the AP / Bridge/ WDS/ AP+WDS features and functions
* Supports firmware upgrade function via Web
* Supports security log
* Supports authentication for wireless connectivity based on ESSID
* Provides MAC access control and hidden SSID function
* WDS supported with WEP, TKIP and AES encryption
* Support IPSEC tunnel encryption (3DES/AES128) and authentication (MD5/SHA1) functions


Standard IEEE 802.11g IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u
Interface 1*WAN Ports 1* LAN Ports
Data rate 802.11b: 1, 2, 5.5 and 11Mbps802.11g: 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, and 54Mbps
Channel USA 11, Europe 13, Japan 14
Memory 2M Flash, 8M SDRAM
Frequency Band 2.4GHz - 2.497GHz ISM Band, DSSS
Transmit Power 32dBm (adjustable 5 steps from 50dBm ~ 30dBm)
Power Linear Power adapter (+18V/1A)
Humidity 10%~95% RH, non condensing
Dimension 135x93x30 mm (LxWxH)
Package contents
One 11g wireless AP/Router
One CD-ROM with user Guide
One Power adapter

AirLink 101 AP671W 300Mbps 802.11n Wireless LAN Access Point and 5-Port Switch

AirLink 101 AP671W 300Mbps 802.11n Wireless LAN Access Point and 5-Port Switch Review

AirLink 101 AP671W 300Mbps 802.11n Wireless LAN Access Point and 5-Port Switch Feature

• Standards: Wireless: IEEE 802.11b/g/n, Ethernet: IEEE 802.3, 802.3u Frequency Band: 2.4 GHz
• 6-in-1 Multi-Function, Access Point, Universal Repeater, AP Client (Wireless Bridge), Point to Point, Point to Multi-Point Bridge, WDS Bridge
• Front Panel LEDs: Power, WLAN, LAN 1 - 5
• Rear Panel Features: On/Off button, Reset/Easy Setup Button, Five (5) 10/100 Mbps RJ-45 LAN ports, 12VDC power plug
• Two (2) 3 dBi antennas provide longer distance, wider coverage

The AP671W is an Access Point, Universal Repeater, AP Client (Wireless Bridge), Point to Point, Point to Multi-Point Bridge and WDS Bridge in one sleek device. It's designed for those who want to add wireless capability to a wired network or extend the range of wireless networks! This Wireless N 300 is equipped with a 5-port 10/100 Mbps switch and delivers fast data rate of up to 300 Mbps! Two 3 dBi antennas provide longer distance and wider coverage! Plus, you'll get superior security protection with WPA2, WPA and WEP encryption!

Cisco WAP4410N Wireless-N Access Point - PoE/Advanced Security

Cisco WAP4410N Wireless-N Access Point - PoE/Advanced Security Review

Cisco WAP4410N Wireless-N Access Point - PoE/Advanced Security Feature

• Former Linksys Business Series
• Cisco WAP4410N Wireless-N Access Point - PoE/Advanced Security
• Advanced security capabilities like support for WEP and WPA protocols, rogue AP detection, MAC-based access control, and 802.1x authentication

Why string cables across your workspace when clients can connect to your internal network using wireless technology? Formerly Linksys Business Series, now Cisco Small Business Wireless Access Points, the WAP4410N is an 802.11n access point that provides secure, high performance network access. You can now extend your wired network to mobile employees within the workplace to keep them connected and productive.

Cisco-Linksys WAP11 Wireless-B Network Access Point

Cisco-Linksys WAP11 Wireless-B Network Access Point Review

Cisco-Linksys WAP11 Wireless-B Network Access Point Feature

• High-speed transfer rate of up to 11 Mbps
• Range of operation of up to 150 meters indoors, up to 500 meters outdoors
• Provides roaming, best access point selection, load balancing, and network traffic filtering
• Interoperable with IEEE 802.11b (DSSS) 2.4 GHz-compliant equipment, and supports up to 32 users/nodes
• Router not included, so you cannot connect multiple users to the Internet

Amazon.com Review The Linksys Instant Wireless Access Point (WAP) serves as communications headquarters for a reliable 11 Mbps wireless network. We found the WAP, used in conjunction with the Linksys Instant Wireless PC Card (and PCI adapter if the wireless card is used in a desktop PC) and a hub or switch, to be a true leader in the move toward wireless networking. In case you're confused, here's a graph illustrating the differences between an access point and a router with access point:

The unit itself is handsome and somewhat reminiscent of the rabbit-ears antenna system used on older televisions. Installing the WAP involves several steps. A USB connection allows for configuration, and installing the USB configuration software allows for monitoring and adjusting settings such as channel, IP address, and service set identifier (SSID). Connecting the unit to a hub or switch using Category 5 cable (which is not included) gives the WAP network access and the ability to begin sending meaningful signals.

The WAP has three indicator lights: Power, link, and activity. The link indicator lights up amber when a link is established with the hub, and the activity light flickers somewhat uncertainly when there is network activity. The antennas can be adjusted left and right, and we found that pointing them in the direction of the wireless computer resulted in a stronger signal.

We found the accompanying user guide somewhat lacking; it gave little guidance on how the network can be configured. And the customer service hotline unfortunately does little more than refer you to your computer's manufacturer. Those who are new to networking may want to bone up on the basics before beginning on a wireless network endeavor--plenty of resources exist on the Web and in print to guide your networking foray. But for those who are transforming an existing wired network into a wireless one, the transition will be fairly painless and straightforward.

In use, the WAP performs well: In the same room, the signal strength to and from the Linksys wireless network card is consistently above 95 percent. We separated the card from the access point by one plaster wall and found that the signal strength was reduced to around 80 percent. Separating them with a closeted wall pulled the signal strength down to about 50 percent. At opposite ends of the home (with numerous plaster walls between), the signal strength maintains at about 35 percent.

The rate of data transmission declines proportionately, starting at an ideal 11 Mbps and dropping to 3 or 4 Mbps at extreme distance and separation. While still reliable, the main difference in performance we noticed was in the basic data-transmitting functions: Slower copying, pasting, opening, and access of resources on other network nodes. While these speeds don't lend themselves well to intensive LAN game play, they are suitable for sharing data between resources, as well as sharing print resources.

Overall, the Linksys wireless package is optimal for those not wishing to string cable throughout a home or office. While performance and speed are comparable to slower wired networks, this is a ready solution for those who need a world without wires, for whatever reason. This package is also ideal for those who are comfortable with networking configurations and troubleshooting, and are ready to take the leap into wireless. --Emilie Dirks

Pros:

• Easy resource sharing that's ideal for small office and home office
• Simple installation and fairly straightforward configuration

Cons:

• Transmission speeds much lower than current fast Ethernet connections (on wired networks)
• Lackluster customer support and documentation

See a comparison diagram of the different wireless technologies.

Wireless networks are rapidly becoming more popular and coming down in price. Since they don't require cables, you can use the devices anywhere in an office or home, even out on the patio. There's no need to roll out an Ethernet network cable to each room of a house; you can network anywhere--without wires. Outside of the home, wireless networking is available in hotspots at coffee shops, businesses, and airports--great when you're on the road and need to get some work done. For convenience, wireless networking is the answer. Which Wireless Standard Is Right for Me? Now that you've decided to create a wireless network, the next step is to figure out which wireless standard to use. Basically, a standard is a set of specifications for a device. All devices that follow a specific standard share operating characteristics, such as the radio frequency used and maximum data transfer speed. For wireless networking, there are three standards to choose from at this time: 802.11b 802.11a 802.11g To learn about the differences between the standards and select the right one for your network, click here for an easy-to-understand chart.

An external wireless network access point for wireless networks based on the IEEE 802.11b standard

Cisco-Linksys WAP610N Wireless-N Access Point with Dual-Band

Cisco-Linksys WAP610N Wireless-N Access Point with Dual-Band Review

Cisco-Linksys WAP610N Wireless-N Access Point with Dual-Band Feature

• Add a Wireless-N (802.11n draft 2.0) network to an existing wired or wireless router
• Optimized for video
• Complies with IEEE 802.11n draft 2.0 (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), 802.11g, 802.11b and 802.11a standards
• Wi-Fi certiied to ensure interoperability
• Industrial-strength wireless encryption WPA2 to ensure security

WRLS N ACCESS POINT WDUAL BAND Wireless

NETGEAR Wireless-N Access Point

NETGEAR Wireless-N Access Point Review

NETGEAR Wireless-N Access Point Feature

• 3 YEAR WARRANTY

Netgear WN802Tv2 Wireless-N Access Point WN802T-200NAS Wireless Access Points