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