35D-Link DWA-172 User Manual
Appendix A - Wireless Basics
What is Wireless?
Wireless or Wi-Fi technology is another way of connecting your computer to the network without using wires.
Wi-Fi uses radio frequency to connect wirelessly, so you have the freedom to connect computers anywhere in
your home or office network.
Why D-Link Wireless?
D-Link is the worldwide leader and award winning designer, developer, and manufacturer of networking
products. D-Link delivers the performance you need at a price you can afford. D-Link has all the products you
need to build your network.
How does wireless work?
Wireless works similar to how cordless phone work, through radio signals to transmit data from one point A
to point B. But wireless technology has restrictions as to how you can access the network. You must be within
the wireless network range area to be able to connect your computer. There are two different types of wireless
networks Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), and Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN).
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
In a wireless local area network, a device called an Access Point (AP) connects computers to the network. The
access point has a small antenna attached to it, which allows it to transmit data back and forth over radio signals.
With an indoor access point as seen in the picture, the signal can travel up to 300 feet. With an outdoor access
point the signal can reach out up to 30 miles to serve places like manufacturing plants, industrial locations,
college and high school campuses, airports, golf courses, and many other outdoor venues.
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