Wireless networking hardware

Wireless Access Point (WAP)

A Wireless Access Point (WAP) is a device that takes an Ethernet signal from a router and converts it into a wireless signal.

Wireless Ethernet Bridge (WEB)

A Wireless Ethernet Bridge (WEB), also called a Media converter, is the part that connects an Ethernet equipped computer to a wireless network. Thus a WEB can go at the other end to receive the wireless signal and convert it back into Ethernet, e.g. perfect for XBox, PS2. Kit like the Linksys WET 11 can operate as both a WAP and a WEB.

Wireless Adaptor Card

A wireless adaptor card is a card (PCI, PCMCIA or Cardbus) used to provide wireless access for a PC.

In ad-hoc mode can be used for wireless connectivity to another PC (via its wireless adaptor card).

In infrastructure mode can be used for wireless connectivity to a router/WAP and thus a WLAN.

Wireless ADSL Gateway/Routers

Wireless ADSL Gateway/Routers Routers are four devices in one box.

• First, there's the Wireless Access Point (WAP), which supports the upcoming 54Mbps wireless networking standard that's almost five times faster than the widely deployed 11Mbps (802.11b) products and are also interoperate with existing 11Mbps equipment.
• There's also a built-in 4-port Switch to connect your wired-Ethernet devices.
• The Router function ties it all together and lets your whole network share a high-speed Internet connection.
• Finally, the ADSL/cable modem connects the Router to your Broadband connection.