TRENDnet TEW-715APO User's Guide - Page 7

TRENDnet User's Guide Creating a Network What is a network? A network is a group of computers or devices that can communicate with each other. A home network of more than one computer or device also typically includes Internet access, which requires a router. A typical home network may include multiple computers, a media player/server, a printer, a modem, and a router. A large home network may also have a switch, additional routers, access points, and many Internet-capable media devices such as TVs, game consoles, and Internet cameras. • Modem - Connects a computer or router to the Internet or ISP (Internet Service Provider). • Router - Connects multiple devices to the Internet. • Switch -Connect several wired network devices to your home network. Your router has a built-in network switch (the LAN port 1-4). If you have more wired network devices than available Ethernet ports on your router, you will need an additional switch to add more wired connections. How to set up a home network 1. For a network that includes Internet access, you'll need: • Computers/devices with an Ethernet port (also called network port) or wireless networking capabilities. • A modem and Internet service to your home, provided by your ISP (modem typically supplied by your ISP). • A router to connect multiple devices to the Internet. 2. Make sure that your modem is working properly. Your modem is often provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) when you sign up for Internet service. If your modem is not working contact your ISP to verify functionality. 3. Set up your router. See "How to setup your router" below. 4. To connect additional wired computers or wired network devices to your network, see "Connect additional wired devices to your network" on page 11. 5. To set up wireless networking on your router, see "Wireless Networking and Security" on page 12. TEW-715APO Wireless Performance Considerations There are a number of factors that can impact the range of wireless devices. 1. Adjust your wireless devices so that the signal is traveling in a straight path, rather than at an angle. The more material the signal has to pass through the more signal you will lose. 2. Keep the number of obstructions to a minimum. Each obstruction can reduce the range of a wireless device. Position the wireless devices in a manner that will minimize the amount of obstructions between them. 3. Building materials can have a large impact on your wireless signal. In an indoor environment, try to position the wireless devices so that the signal passes through less dense material such as dry wall. Dense materials like metal, solid wood, glass or even furniture may block or degrade the signal. 4. Antenna orientation can also have a large impact on your wireless signal. Use the wireless adapter's site survey tool to determine the best antenna orientation for your wireless devices. 5. Interference from devices that produce RF (radio frequency) noise can also impact your signal. Position your wireless devices away from anything that generates RF noise, such as microwaves, radios and baby monitors. 6. Any device operating on the 2.4GHz frequency will cause interference. Devices such as 2.4GHz cordless phones or other wireless remotes operating on the 2.4GHz frequency can potentially drop the wireless signal. Although the phone may not be in use, the base can still transmit wireless signal. Move the phone's base station as far away as possible from your wireless devices. If you are still experiencing low or no signal consider repositioning the wireless devices or installing additional access points. The use of higher gain antennas may also provide the necessary coverage depending on the environment. © Copyright 2012 TRENDnet. All Rights Reserved. 6