User's Manual

Introduction

Wireless Networks

CONFIDENT

Doc. No. MV-S800245-00 Rev. C

May 26, 2005, 2.00 Document Classification: Proprietary Page 9

Section 1. Introduction

This document describes the functions of the Foxconn WLAN Module Configuration Utility for the following:

•

Foxconn J20H018 802.11b/g WLAN Module

Notes

• In this document, the Foxconn WLAN Module Configuration Utility may also be referred to as the

Configuration Utility or just the Utility.

• See the J20H018 Installation Guide for information on installing the Configuration Utility, the

Client Card Module, and the Foxconn Windows

driver.

• See Appendix A. "Acronyms and Abbreviations" on page 51 for a list of acronyms used throughout

this document.

1.1 Wireless Networks

Foxconn WLAN Module operate similar to Ethernet cards except that a radio replaces the wires between

communication devices. All existing applications that operate over Ethernet operates over a Foxconn wireless

network without any modification or need for special wireless networking software. The adapter supports the

following network technologies:

•

Ad-Hoc (peer-to-peer group) mode

•

Access Point (AP) Infrastructure mode

1.1.1 Ad-Hoc Mode

In Ad-Hoc mode (also referred to as peer-to-peer mode), wireless clients send and receive information to other

wireless clients without using an AP. In comparison to infrastructure mode, this type of WLAN connection only

contains wireless clients. Ad-Hoc mode is useful for establishing a network where wireless infrastructure does not

exist or where services are not required. Two or more computers can establish an Ad-Hoc network when within

range of one another. Each computer dynamically connects to one another without additional configuration. Ad-Hoc

mode is used to network computers at home or in small offices. It is also used to set up a temporary wireless

network for meetings.

1.1.2 Infrastructure Mode

In infrastructure mode, wireless devices communicate with other wireless devices or devices on the LAN side

wired network through Access Points. When communicating through wired networks, client cards send and receive

information through APs. The AP receives the information and redirects it for clients to receive the information.

Access Points are typically strategically located within an area to provide optimal coverage for wireless clients. A

large WLAN uses multiple APs to provide coverage over a wide area. APs connect to a LAN through a wired

Ethernet connection. APs send and receive information from the LAN through this wired connection. Most

corporate WLANs operate in infrastructure mode because they require access to the wired LAN in order to use

services such as file servers or printers.