Lexmark x6570 User Guide

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.

Communication

Through wireless access point (wireless
router)

Directly between devices

Security

More security options

Range

Determined by range and number of
access points

Restricted to range of individual devices
on network

Speed

Usually faster

Usually slower

Unique IP address for each
device

Yes

Yes

Mode set to

Infrastructure mode

Ad hoc mode

Same SSID

Yes, including the wireless access point
(wireless router)

Yes

Same channel

Yes, including the wireless access point
(wireless router)

Yes

Infrastructure mode is the recommended setup method because it has:

Increased network security

Increased reliability

Faster performance

Easier setup

Wireless devices have built-in antennas that transmit and receive radio signals. The signal strength listed on the
printer network setup page indicates how strongly a transmitted signal is being received. Many factors can affect
the signal strength. One factor is interference from other wireless devices or even other devices such as microwave
ovens. Another factor is distance. The farther two wireless devices are from each other, the more likely it is that the
communication signal will be weaker.

Networking the printer