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Chapter 9: Networking Your Computer
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Using a wireless Ethernet network
A wireless Ethernet network is ideal for creating a home or office network or
adding mobility to an existing wired Ethernet.
Wireless Ethernet is available at two different speeds. 802.11a wireless Ethernet
runs at speeds up to 54 Mbps, or about half the speed of Fast Ethernet. 802.11b
wireless Ethernet runs at speeds up to 11 Mbps, or approximately the same
speed as standard wired Ethernet. This type of network allows you the freedom
to move about your home or office with your notebook. For example, you can
take your notebook from your home office to your patio without having an
Ethernet jack available.
The two most common types of wireless Ethernet networks are access point
and peer-to-peer.
Important The speed of a wireless network is related to signal
strength. Signal strength is affected by the distance
between your wireless network devices, by radio
interference, and by interference from natural obstructions
such as walls, floors, and doors.