eMachines et1641 User Guide

Chapter 5: Networking Your Computer

48

Wireless Ethernet standards

Current wireless Ethernet standards include the following:

•

802.11a — 54Mbps

•

802.11b — 11Mbps

•

802.11g — 54Mbps

•

802.11n — 540Mbps

Speed is not the only issue if you decide to use equipment with different standards. Compatibility 
can also be an issue. Take the following into consideration when you purchase wireless equipment:

Using an access point

An access point is a small electronic device that serves as the central control point for your network. 
You connect your modem to the access point, set up a network connection, then browse the 
Internet, send e-mail, share files and folders with other networked computers, and access other 
devices, like a printer or scanner.

Equipment you need for an access point-based network

For a wireless Ethernet network you need:

•

Your Gateway computer with wireless networking installed

•

A broadband Internet connection (optional)

•

An access point

802.11a

802.11a only

802.11b

802.11b only

802.11g

802.11b and 802.11g

802.11n

802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n

When you buy your access point, make sure it has:

• IEEE 802.11n support. 802.11n is the fastest method for wireless communications. 802.11n is compatible with the older 

IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11b formats but not with the competing IEEE 802.11a format. Make sure that you get the 
correct format that matches your computer.

• DHCP server/dynamic IP address assignment capability that makes it easier to set up and access your network.
• Internet security features like a firewall to keep intruders out of your network.
• Wireless security features like SecureEasySetup™ or 128-bit WEP encryption.

Cable or DSL modem

Access point

8513042.book  Page 48  Saturday, April 19, 2008  9:17 PM