Lexmark 16Z0000 User's Guide - Page 38

Types of wireless networks Networks can operate in one of two modes: infrastructure or ad hoc. Lexmark recommends setting up a network in infrastructure mode using the installation CD that came with the printer. A wireless network where each device communicates with others through a wireless access point (wireless router) is set up in infrastructure mode. All devices must have valid IP addresses and share the same SSID and channel. In addition, they must share the same SSID and channel as the wireless access point (wireless router). A simple type of wireless network is one where a PC with a wireless adapter communicates directly with a printer equipped for wireless networking. This mode of communication is called ad hoc. A device in this type of network must have a valid IP address and be set to ad hoc mode. The wireless print server must also be configured with the same SSID and channel. Characteristics Communication Security Range Speed Infrastructure Ad hoc Through wireless access point (wireless Directly between devices router) More security options Determined by range and number of access points Restricted to range of individual devices on network Usually faster Usually slower Requirements for all devices on the network Unique IP address for each Yes device Mode set to Infrastructure mode Same SSID Yes, including the wireless access point (wireless router) Same channel Yes, including the wireless access point (wireless router) Yes Ad hoc mode Yes Yes Infrastructure mode is the recommended setup method because it has: • Increased network security • Increased reliability • Faster performance • Easier setup Tips for using network adapters • Make sure the adapter connections are secure. • Make sure the computer is turned on. • Make sure you entered the correct IP address. 38