Netgear FWAG114 FWAG114 Reference Manual - Page 35

Chapter 4 Wireless Configuration This chapter describes how to configure the wireless features of your FWAG114 wireless firewall. Observe Performance, Placement, and Range Guidelines In planning your wireless network, you should consider the level of security required. You should also select the physical placement of your FWAG114 in order to maximize the network speed. For further information on wireless networking, refer to in Appendix D, "Wireless Networking Basics." The operating distance or range of your wireless connection can vary significantly based on the physical placement of the FWAG114 wireless firewall. The latency, data throughput performance, and notebook power consumption also vary depending on your configuration choices. Note: Failure to follow these guidelines can result in significant performance degradation or inability to wirelessly connect to the VPN firewall . For complete range and performance specifications, please see Appendix A, "Technical Specifications." For best results, place your VPN firewall : • Near the center of the area in which your PCs will operate. • In an elevated location such as a high shelf where the wirelessly connected PCs have line-of-sight access (even if through walls). The best location is elevated, such as wall mounted or on the top of a cubicle, and at the center of your wireless coverage area for all the mobile devices. • Away from sources of interference, such as PCs, microwaves, and 2.4 GHz cordless phones. The 802.11a standard operates at a higher frequency and should be less susceptible to interference from cordless phones. This higher 802.11a frequency may not offer as much range as the lower frequency 802.11b/g in a indoor environment with lots of obstructions. • Away from large metal surfaces. Wireless Configuration 4-1