Devolo MicroLink dLAN Wireless - Manual (Page 8)

Introduction
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| devolo MicroLink dLAN Wireless |
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1.2 The basic functions of a wireless network
In a wireless network, you use wireless networking cards to connect individ-
ual notebook computers and PCs to a LAN (Local Area Network). As the usual
network cables have been replaced by a radio link in this case, we also refer
to this as a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN).
An access point forms the bridge between (d)LAN and WLAN. The access
point transfers all data between the two networks.
The maximum area in which wireless network adapters in mobile stations
and the access point can reach each other and exchange data is known as a
radio cell. All the functions of a wired network are available in a wireless net-
work.
Data security
The WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) encryption method attaches a 128-bit
key to the wireless data, ensuring the secure transfer of data within the net-
work.
1.3 What does the MicroLink dLAN Wireless have to
offer?
Equipped with a wireless interface, the MicroLink dLAN Wireless access
point allows a home network to be built both over the existing power supply
system and wirelessly: PC tasks such as data exchange, access to a shared
printer on the home network and Internet access are performed over the
existing electrical wiring of the home. Network links in conferences, access
to resources in adjacent buildings and exchanging data with mobile units are
only a few of the options available with a wireless LAN.
The advantages of a combination of these two network cards are obvious:
using dLAN adapters, every available electrical outlet can be used to connect
your computers to your home network. This makes you completely mobile—
from the basement to the attic, everything is transmitted through your power
outlets. In a wireless LAN, PCs and notebooks can be set up wherever they
are most useful—here, too, problems with unavailable network connections
are a thing of the past.