Is there any difference in range and data rates between 802.11g and 802.11b wireless networks?

The range will vary based on many factors like interference, number of floors and walls, building materials used, and presence of large metal objects. Otherwise, there should be no major difference in range between 802.11b and 802.11g wireless networks. If WG311 is connected to a 802.11g access point or router, the peak data rate can reach 54 Mbps.

Does WG311 work with 802.11b access point or router?

Yes. WG311 will work with both 802.11b and 802.11g access points and routers.

What is the realistic data transfer rate in 802.11g wireless network?

If the 802.11g access point or router is reasonably close to the WG311, the realistic data transfer rate can reach 15-20 Mbps in a clean environment. In a noisy environment with interference from microwave oven, cordless phone or other 802.11b or 802.11g wireless network, the data transfer rate will be lower.

What is WEP Encryption in a wireless network?

The IEEE specification has defined a function referred to as the Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). This function defines a form of encryption, which provides privacy equivalent to a wired Ethernet network. As with a wired network, one should consider using additional VPN type software to ensure the highest levels of security.

What is the SSID in a wireless network?

The SSID is a common identification name unique to each wireless network. Only those devices with a common SSID can communicate with one another on the network. An additional level of privacy can be attained with WEP encryption.

How Secure is a Wireless Network?

Wireless technology introduces an extra security risk factor along with the convenience of moving about freely. The extra risk is due to your data being broadcast through the air. Savvy computer users that come close enough to your wireless antenna can tap in -- just as if they had physically tapped a computer cable.

Because of the extra risk, it is more important to use encryption and other security on wireless networks than it is on wired networks. If you have sensitive information on your local computer network, turn on all the security features supplied by NETGEAR products, and use the strongest encryption. For example, given a choice between 64-bit and 128-bit encryption, choose 128-bit.

The User's Manual or Reference Manual that come with your NETGEAR product explains how to turn on security features.

No computer network -- whether wired or wireless -- is safe from a prolonged, expert attack. However, taking advantage of the NETGEAR security features will make your network much less vulnerable than a typical network. For a secure network, of course, it's important to keep up with security patches for your operating system and for your Internet browser. Generally, hackers look for easy targets. With NETGEAR security features and other cautious security practices, it's easy enough to avoid most intrusions.

Doc ID: N101292.asp Feb. 19, 2004