ZyXEL P-660HN-T1A Support Guide - Page 28

Wireless FAQ General FAQ 1. What is a Wireless LAN? P-660HN Series Support Notes Wireless LANs provide all the functionality of wired LANs, without the need for physical connections (wires). Data is modulated onto a radio frequency carrier and transmitted through the ether. Typical bit-rates are 11Mbps and 54Mbps, although in practice data throughput is half of this. Wireless LANs can be formed simply by equipping PC's with wireless NICs. If connectivity to a wired LAN is required an Access Point (AP) is used as a bridging device. AP's are typically located close to the centre of the wireless client population. 2. What are the advantages of Wireless LAN? Mobility: Wireless LAN systems can provide LAN users with access to real-time information anywhere in their organization. This mobility supports productivity and service opportunities not possible with wired networks. Installation Speed and Simplicity: Installing a wireless LAN system can be fast and easy and can eliminate the need to pull cable through walls and ceilings. Installation Flexibility: Wireless technology allows the network to go where wire cannot go. Reduced Cost-of-Ownership: While the initial investment required for wireless LAN hardware can be higher than the cost of wired LAN hardware, overall installation expenses and life-cycle costs can be significantly lower. Long-term cost benefits are greatest in dynamic environments requiring frequent moves and changes. Scalability: Wireless LAN systems can be configured in a variety of topologies to meet the needs of specific applications and installations. Configurations are easily changed and range from peer-to-peer networks suitable for a small number of users to full infrastructure networks of thousands of users that enable roaming over a broad area. 3. What is the disadvantage of Wireless LAN? 28 All contents copyright © 2010 ZyXEL Communications Corporation.