10-04-2017, 09:38 PM
Abstract
A wireless computer network is a set of components that allows a computer to access a computing network, and the Internet, without being connected to the building through a wire. The most popular reason for participating in a wireless network is because we own a portable notebook computer, and frequently use it from many locations on campus - and connecting the notebook to a data jack is inconvenient or simply not possible. When we are part of a wireless network, our computer communicates to one or more "wireless access points" installed in a building. As we move around, we may fall outside the range of these access points and disconnect from the network, or our computer may automatically switch from the access point currently in use to one that is now closer (it may help to compare the wireless network to experiences you may have had with cellular phones - their signals get weak as we get farther away from the cellular tower, and then get better if our phone switches to a different cellular site). Assuming that we have a notebook computer and want to use the wireless network installed on campus, we will have to purchase an appropriate wireless adapter card for your notebook, register your wireless card with Information Services, and use our notebook in an area covered by the wireless network. While it is possible to get a wireless card for a desktop personal computer, this option is generally not recommended for a variety of reasons (cost, speed ..).
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