Belkin F5D6001_ver1 User Guide - Page 17

P74056_F5D6001_man(fp).qxd 5/3/2002 5:09 PM Page 28 wireless networking The diagram below illustrates how a wireless access point acts as a bridge between the wireless BSS and the wired network. Desktop PC Desktop PC Switch Wireless Access Point Basic Service Set (BSS) Roaming More than one wireless access point can be used to increase the wireless coverage in a wireless LAN. The diagram below shows two wireless access points configured to extend coverage beyond that of a single unit. The overlapping area of each BSS is called an "Extended Service Set (ESS)". When a wireless computer enters the ESS, the computer evaluates the signal strength and link quality, then chooses the wireless access point with the best-quality signal and link. This activity is known as "roaming". To configure your wireless access points to allow roaming inside of the wireless network, each unit will be assigned the same Service Set Identifier (SSID). Strategically placing multiple units around an office or inside of the home can extend the wireless coverage to the entire premise. The illustration below shows two Basic Service Sets overlapping to form an Extended Service Set. wireless networking Desktop PC Desktop PC Switch Wireless Access Point BSS1 BSS2 Wireless Access Point ESS 28 29