Wireless Networking Basics Memphis TN

Before You Buy
Before embarking on the installation of a wireless network, you should do your homework by thinking about what you need and the issues you might run into. Get off on the right foot by looking through this chapter and answering your initial questions before plopping down money on equipment. There are many reasons why people use wired or wireless computer networks:

Share an Internet connection: With a network, several people in your home or office can use the same high-speed Internet connection at the same time. For example, you may be researching your next vacation spot while your daughter is sending instant messages to her boyfriend.

Share files: If you are tired of using floppies and USB thumbdrives to transfer files from one computer to the other, a network will make life much easier. After connecting to a network, you can simply drag and drop files from one computer to the other. After doing this a few times, you’ll wonder how you ever made it through the day without a network.

Share a printer: With a network, everyone can print to the same printer. For example, if you have a printer attached to a PC in your family room, you could print to it from your laptop while lounging on a hammock in the backyard.You can even attach a printer directly to the network, which will prevent someone who is printing a large document from slowing down the computer where the printer is attached.

Enjoy multiplayer games: A network allows the use of interactive games, with each player sitting in front of his or her own computer. Many of the computer games on the market today have features that enable multiple players to take part in the action (assuming their computers can connect to a network). So, if you’re into computer games and you have others who want to play, then don’t wait. Install a network, now!

Why Go Wireless?
If you decide a network is right for you, then your next step is to select which kind you want: a traditional wired network (Ethernet) or a wireless network. Wireless, also called Wi-Fi, is rapidly growing in popularity.You have probably seen television commercials and other advertisements touting the benefits of wireless networks, or you may have friends and family who installed one. The following sections describe the advantages and disadvantages of wireless networks that you should consider when deciding if a wireless network is right for you.

Advantages of Wireless Networks
A wireless network provides the following advantages:

Mobility: Similar to a cell phone, a wireless laptop or handheld computer (see Figure 1-1) enables you to communicate from just about anywhere.You’re not forced to sit in front of a single desktop computer at a single location. Instead, you can use a wireless device to check your stocks while relaxing in front of the television (see Figure 1-2), check e-mail while cooking (see Figure 1-3), or find someplace quiet in the house to get some real work. In addition, you can take your wireless computer on the road and access the Internet from public Wi-Fi hotspots such as airports, hotels, universities, restaurants, and coffee shops.

Easier installation: A wireless network doesn’t require you to run massive lengths of cable between two computers (which often requires you to spend hours fishing that cable between walls and ceilings).

Wide coverage area: A wireless network’s signal can cover a large amount of space. For example, if you have a photography studio in your garage, you can use a wireless network to connect to a computer in your house and share an Internet account.

Disadvantages of Wireless Networks
A wireless network can cause the following problems:

Interference: Because a wireless network uses radio waves to send data between computers, other radio waves from microwave ovens and cordless phones may interfere with your network.

Security attacks: Criminals can park outside a home or office and monitor or hijack the signals sent from wireless networks that have not been properly secured. In fact, there have been cases of thieves capturing wireless credit-card transactions by sitting in the parking lots outside stores. However, with the proper security techniques— which are available on all wireless network devices today—both you and the store stay safe. For information on encrypting and securing a wireless network, see Chapter 6.

The configuration is more complex: Sometimes it can be tricky to properly configure a wireless router’s security settings or other features. For that reason, pay close attention to Chapters 3 and 4.

How Wireless Works
If you are installing your own wireless network, it is helpful to understand the big picture. Even if you’re not technologically inclined, understanding the basic workings of your wireless network will provide you with some common sense in case you run into any problems. Here are some components and concepts you need to know:

Wireless card: Each computer on the network must have a wireless card correctly installed and configured in order to send and receive wireless signals. These cards are easy to install and configure (as you will learn in Chapters 3 and 5).

Wireless router: A wireless router is the main hardware in a wireless network. It links with a broadband modem to provide the network with a high-speed Internet connection. The router also sends radio signals that enable computers with wireless cards to connect to your network.You learn all about configuring a router in Chapter 4.

FYI Because wireless networks use radio waves, you may be concerned about health issues. Fortunately, research shows that the output power of wireless networks is much lower than cell phones, and there are no official reports of wireless networks causing any medical problems. However, as a precaution, you shouldn’t touch the antenna of a wireless card or router while they are being used.

Medium access: The wireless cards take turns sending data to and from each other over the air waves. Before a wireless card can transmit data, it must first analyze the air and determine whether another wireless card is transmitting a signal. If there is no signal present, then the wireless card can send data. If it detects a signal, the card waits and sends the data later. This “listen-before-transmit” method regulates access to the air and only allows one wireless card to send data at any given time.

Traffic flow: In most networks, the digital traffic going from one wireless computer to another passes through a wireless router. For example, when Sierra sends a digital music file from her computer to Madison’s computer, her computer transmits the file to the wireless router, and then the router sends it along to Madison’s computer. Figure 1-4 shows a simple diagram of the way data flows across a network.

“Ad hoc” wireless network: This type of network allows computers to communicate wirelessly with each other without using a router. You can swap files anywhere without having to connect to a wireless router (see Figure 1-5).

Got Wireless?
Most older computers do not have wireless cards, so those cards must be purchased separately. However, if your computer is relatively new, it might already have a wireless card installed.To find out via Windows or, if that doesn’t work, you can look at your hardware, as described in the following sections. Look Inside Windows Follow these steps to use Windows to see if you have a wireless card: 1. Right-click the My Computer icon on your desktop. If this icon is not available, then click the Start button in the lower-left corner of Windows and click My Computer. If you can’t find the My Computer icon anywhere, do the following: a. Right-click in the empty space on your desktop. b. Select Properties. c. A window opens. Click the Desktop tab. d. Near the bottom of the window, click the Customize Desktop button. e. Another window opens. On the General tab, beneath Desktop Icons, place a checkmark in the My Computer box. f. Click the OK button. g. You will be returned to the previous screen. Click the Apply button. h. Click the OK button. i. The My Computer icon appears on your desktop. Right-click it.

2. Select Properties.

3. A window opens. Click the Hardware tab.

4. Click the Device Manager button.

5. Click the + (plus sign) located next to the Network Adapters category. If there are icons under Network Adapters, then you need to figure out what type they are. An Ethernet card (used with a traditional, wired network) has a label that says something like 10/100 or Ethernet. If the label mentions the word “wireless”—such as “wireless PCI card”—then it is a wireless card. Figure 1-6 shows a wireless card in the Device Manager.

If you cannot find the Network Adapters category or if no icons appear under this category when you click the +, then most likely you do not have a wireless card installed.To be sure, you should look at your computer’s hardware.

Look at Your Hardware
If you have looked in Windows but still can’t determine whether you have a wireless card installed, then you should inspect your computer’s hardware. If you have a laptop computer:

There is no quick way to determine whether you have an internal wireless card. Both the card and antenna are mounted inside your laptop behind an access door. In some cases, your laptop may have a manufacturer’s label that indicates an internal wireless card exists.

If you have an external wireless card, it sticks out of a slot on the side of your laptop (see Figure 1-7).

Follow these steps if you have a desktop computer: 1. Move your computer’s case so you can see its back. Be careful not to yank out or disconnect any wires.

2. If you have a wireless card installed, an antenna several inches long extends from the back of the computer. This antenna is attached to a card mounted inside the computer’s case (see Figure 1-8). 12 Part I • Wireless Networking Basics

3. Some wireless cards have desktop antennas connected to them.You can check for this by following any wires coming from your computer’s cards.

The Lowdown on Wi-Fi
Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) is a brand name given to wireless networks by the Wi- Fi Alliance (an organization that governs Wi-Fi products). There are several versions of Wi-Fi: 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g, each of which uses different methods for transmitting and receiving data. For more information about their differences, see Table 1-1.

It is important to understand that the 802.11b and 802.11g technologies are compatible with each other, so even if you have older 802.11b equipment, it still works with the newer 802.11g equipment. Also, be aware that in order to use the 802.11g “SpeedBooster” feature, both your wireless router and wireless card must support it.

Ensure Compatibility
Because there are several different standards of wireless networks, you must buy a wireless card that is compatible with your wireless router. Otherwise, the devices won’t be able to “talk” to each other. In addition, if you are planning to use special features like SpeedBooster or power saving, you must make sure those features are properly set up. Here are some general guidelines for ensuring compatibility:

Use compatible technologies: Make sure the wireless card and wireless router are using the same frequency. For example, a 2.4 GHz wireless card (802.11b or 802.11g) can only connect to a 2.4 GHz wireless router (802.11b or 802.11g). It cannot connect to a 5 GHz (802.11a) wireless router.

Buy Wi-Fi certified hardware: Look for the Wi- Ficertification listed on the product packaging or on the product itself.You can also visit the Wi-Fi Alliance’s website (www.wi-fi.com) to view the products that have Wi-Fi certification.

Use the same manufacturer: If possible, use the same brand of wireless cards and routers. This allows you to take advantage of special manufacturer-specific enhancements, such as SpeedBooster or range-extension techniques. Increase the Lifespan of Your Wireless Equipment As with any other computer technology, wireless networks have rapidly evolved, becoming faster and more secure. Newer wireless equipment should last for many years until something better comes along that is more appealing. Here are a few tips to keep your wireless equipment from becoming outdated too soon:

Buy Wi-Fi certified equipment: This can’t be said enough. If you don’t purchase devices that have an official Wi-Fi certification, you run the risk of having that equipment become troublesome or unusable in the near future.

Check for firmware and driver updates: Periodically, hardware manufacturers release two kinds of updates for their equipment: firmware and drivers. These updates fix problems, offer enhanced

It’s a Fact The number 802.11 comes from the group that developed the initial standards for local area networks. The 80 refers to the year they began their work— 1980—and the 2 refers to the actual month they began— February, the second month. The 11 was later given to the 802 group that created the wireless LAN standard because it was the eleventh standard they had developed.

FYI If you want wireless equipment that can work with any 802.11 standard (a, b, or g), buy a “dual-band” router and card. features, and plug security holes. It is a good idea to check for new firmware and drivers every few months just to stay safe. Some manufacturers send e-mail announcements to inform you when updates are available, but others require you to check their website.

The Equipment You’ll Need for a Network
To set up a wireless network, you need to learn some high-tech terminology and purchase special equipment.

Untangle the Terminology
Whether you’re browsing the shelves in a computer store or researching Wi-Fi products on the Internet, you might be confused by the high-tech lingo. Often there are several names that mean the same thing, so here is a quick rundown of common Wi-Fi words and their synonyms:

Wireless router: Also called a wireless broadband router or an access point.

Wireless card: Also called a PCI adapter, desktop adapter, Wi-Fi adapter, or wireless adapter.

Notebook adapter: Also called a cardbus adapter, wireless PC card, radio card, Wi-Fi adapter, or wireless adapter.

2.4 GHz: Also called 802.11b, 802.11g, b, or g.

5 GHz: Also called 802.11a, Wi-Fi5, or a.

Wireless Router
The average wireless router (as shown in Figure 1-9) has a range of 100 feet, so if you are interested in setting up a wireless network in your home or small office, you should only need one router. Some routers are “single-band” and implement either 2.4 GHz technologies (802.11b and 802.11g) or 5 GHz technologies (802.11a). Some routers, though, are “dual-band,” which means they use both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. Consider the following when deciding whether to purchase a dual-band router:

Price: The price of dual-band routers is generally 25 percent higher than a standalone 2.4 GHz (802.11g) router.

Compatibility: Because the majority of laptops and PCs come equipped with a 2.4 GHz (802.11b or 802.11g) wireless card, you can probably get by with only having an 802.11g router. Don’t forget, a 2.4 GHz wireless card can’t connect to a 5 GHz router, so no matter what type you choose, always use wireless equipment that shares the same frequency.

Performance: There is much less interference in the 5 GHz band, which means that 802.11a routers can operate with fewer interruptions than 802.11g routers.

PCI card:You’ll need a wireless PCI card for each computer you want to connect to a wireless network. The card shown in Figure 1-10 inserts into your computer.

Notebook adapters:You need a wireless notebook card (see Figure 1-11) for each laptop or handheld computer. Before spending money on equipment, make sure your handheld computer has a notebook adapter slot. Usually this slot is located on the top of the computer. Also, look in your owner’s manual to verify whether your handheld computer will accommodate a notebook adapter.

Compact Flash adapter:You may need a wireless Compact Flash (CF) adapter for each handheld computer you want to connect to a wireless network (see Figure 1-12). Before spending money on equipment, make sure your handheld computer has a CF adapter slot. Usually this slot is located on the top of the computer. Also, look in your owner’s manual to verify whether your handheld computer will accommodate a CF card.

USB adapters: Use this type if you have an available USB port and want to avoid the hassles of opening up your desktop computer and inserting a card.

Antenna: In most cases you can use the antenna that came with your wireless card. However, if the antenna is removable, you can purchase a replacement that is more powerful. Determine the Number of Cards You Need Here are some things to consider when deciding how many wireless cards you should purchase:

Buy one wireless card for each computer you want to connect to the network.

You can save money by using an inexpensive Ethernet cable to connect your desktop or laptop computer to the traditional wired ports on the back of the wireless router.

Add Bells and Whistles
To boost the performance of your wireless network, there are a few enhancements you can use, as described in the following sections.

MIMO
MIMO (which stands for multiple input, multiple output) is a feature appearing in new routers that enables you to improve the performance of your wireless signal by using “smart” antennas. Here are some things to consider about MIMO:

Standards: Currently there are no official standards for MIMO. It is being incorporated into a new wireless standard called 802.11n, but the approval process has been slow. As a result, the standard may not become available until 2007. Some manufacturers have already produced MIMO-based wireless routers, but these are unofficial.

Do you need MIMO? The answer is probably no, especially if your home or office can get by with a single router without MIMO. Routers with MIMO cost more, so if you don’t need it, don’t buy it.

SpeedBooster
Some wireless hardware has an enhancement known as “SpeedBooster” that doubles its speed. For example, it can increase the data rate of an 802.11g router from 54 Mbps to 108 Mbps. If you purchase a wireless product with this feature, consider the following tips:

Use the same brand of equipment: Because SpeedBooster is not an official Wi-Fi standard, you have to use wireless cards and routers from the same manufacturer.

Enable it on all equipment: If you want to take advantage of SpeedBooster, you must turn on this feature in the wireless router and in each wireless card.

Upgrade the Antenna
In most cases, you can use the antenna that came with your wireless router. However, if the antenna is removable, you can replace it with one that is stronger and has a better range. Here are some general guidelines:

Visit the manufacturer’s website: By researching the styles of antennas offered by the manufacturer of your wireless router, you will be able to buy one that properly fits your router. Don’t forget: you can’t replace an antenna that isn’t removable.

Purchase from a third party:You can purchase a variety of antennas for Wi-Fi devices from companies like RF Linx (www.rflinx.com) and Til Tek (www.tiltek.com). Chapter 1: Before You Buy 19

Check for compatibility: When you order antennas, be sure they are designed to work with your brand of wireless equipment. Different manufacturers use different types of antenna connectors, so it is important to get this right. Otherwise, you won’t be able to attach the new antenna to your device.

Hardware and Software Requirements
Wireless cards are designed to work with a variety of operating systems, such as Windows, Mac OS, and Linux. The memory and processor speeds are minimal, so it is unlikely you will encounter any issues with compatibility. Here are some tips to consider:

Use Windows XP: The most recent version of Windows, known as Windows XP, makes it easy to set up and use wireless networks. If you don’t have XP, you can buy a copy and perform a manual upgrade or you can have Geeks On Call come to your home or office to do the upgrade.

Have a CD drive available: Make sure your computer has a CD-ROM drive, because you probably need to install software for your wireless router or card that comes on a CD-ROM.

Estimate Your Network’s Cost
Here are some approximate prices for the devices you must purchase to set up a wireless network:

Wireless adapter: $20 to $80

Wireless router: $30 to $100

Which Manufacturer Is Best?
There are several major companies that produce outstanding wireless network products for homes and small businesses. Here are some respected names (in no particular order):

Buffalo: www.buffalotech.com

Linksys: www.linksys.com

D-Link: www.dlink.com

Netgear: www.netgear.com

FYI Some replacement antennas come with several different connectors, so be sure to read the instructions to know which connector to use with your particular wireless card or router.

FYI Prices vary depending on the features you choose. For example, a wireless router that uses MIMO technology to improve performance may cost 50 percent more than a router without MIMO. Also, keep in mind that the prices of most wireless network components have been steadily decreasing in recent years, and will likely continue to do so. To pick the best brand of wireless products for your needs, consider the following:

Price. When shopping around to get the lowest possible price on wireless equipment, keep in mind that cheaper is not always better. Don’t go with no-name brands just to save a few bucks. Stick with a reputable manufacturer’s products.

Enhancements. Look for special features like MIMO and SpeedBooster. Investigate whether the manufacturer also sells wireless companion products such as digital media players, cameras, and print servers. If so, your network has room to grow and won’t have problems connecting to those other products.

User friendliness. Look at the packaging to see if there are any clues about how easy the product will be to install. However, don’t base your entire decision on the package.

The Effects of Bad Weather
Heavy rain, fog, and other undesirable weather conditions decrease the range of some wireless networks, such as those providing wireless connections between buildings in a city. But for small wireless networks less than 500 feet in diameter— like the kind found in the average home or office—the impact of bad weather is undetectable.

How Many Computers Does a Network Support?
The average wireless router can support up to 20 wireless computers. However, using an Internet telephone like Vonage (referred to as voice over IP, or VoIP for short) may strain the network and make it feel sluggish. If this happens, consider using two or more routers in the same area, but set them to different channels.

FYI If you already know what wireless products you want to buy, consider purchasing them from an Internet store like Newegg (www.newegg.com). Often this can save you quite a bit of money.

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