ZyXEL Communications G-270S Network Card User Manual


 
ZyXEL G-270S User’s Guide
Chapter 2 Wireless LAN Network 25
CHAPTER 2
Wireless LAN Network
This chapter provides background information on wireless LAN network.
2.1 Wireless LAN Overview
This section describes the wireless LAN network terms and applications.
2.1.1 SSID
The SSID (Service Set Identity) is a unique name shared among all wireless devices in a
wireless network. Wireless devices must have the same SSID to communicate with each other.
2.1.2 Channel
A radio frequency used by a wireless device is called a channel.
2.1.3 Transmission Rate (Tx Rate)
The ZyXEL G-270S provides various transmission (data) rate options for you to select.
Options include Fully Auto, 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps, 5.5 Mbps, 6 Mbps, 9 Mbps, 11 Mbps, 12
Mbps, 18 Mbps, 24 Mbps, 36 Mbps, 48 Mbps and 54 Mbps. In most networking scenarios,
the factory default Fully Auto setting proves the most efficient. This setting allows your
ZyXEL G-270S to operate at the maximum transmission (data) rate. When the communication
quality drops below a certain level, the ZyXEL G-270S automatically switches to a lower
transmission (data) rate. Transmission at lower data speeds is usually more reliable. However,
when the communication quality improves again, the ZyXEL G-270S gradually increases the
transmission (data) rate again until it reaches the highest available transmission rate. You can
select any of the above options. If you wish to balance speed versus reliability, select 54 Mbps
in a networking environment where you are certain that all wireless devices can communicate
at the highest transmission (data) rate. 1 Mbps or 2 Mbps are used often in networking
environments where the range of the wireless connection is more important than speed.
Note: With USB1.0/1.1, the ZyXEL G-270S can only transmit at up to 11Mbps.
Your ZyXEL G-270S can transmit at up to 108 Mbps when connected to an AP
or wireless router with the Super G feature enabled.
Actual speeds attained also depend on the distance from the AP, noise, etc.