D-Link DWL-1700AP Product Manual - Page 71

Appendix 3: Wireless Basics D-Link wireless products are based on industry standards to provide easy-to-use and compatible high-speed wireless connectivity within your home, business or wherever a wireless network is available. D-Link wireless products will allow you access to the data you want, when and where you want it. You will be able to enjoy the freedom that wireless networking brings. A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a cellular computer network that transmits and receives data with radio signals instead of wires. WLANs are used increasingly in both home and office environments, and public areas such as airports, coffee shops and universities. Innovative ways to utilize WLAN technology are helping people to work and communicate more efficiently. Increased mobility and the absence of cabling and other fixed infrastructure have proven to be beneficial for many users. Wireless users can use the same applications they use on a wired network. Wireless adapter cards used on laptop and desktop systems support the same protocols as Ethernet adapter cards. Under many circumstances, it may be desirable for mobile network devices to link to a conventional Ethernet LAN in order to use servers, printers or an Internet connection supplied through the wired LAN. A Wireless Access Point is a device that can be used to provide this link. 71