WLAN- i'm confused!

[lemmy999]

I want to create a wireless network around the house ( 1 laptop and maybe an X box) |i am running a PCChips M 810 LR mobo with built in LAN. On the modem side i think i've lucked out as i'm using one of the Alcatel frogs!!. my questions are as follows:
1. do i need a new modem?
2. whats the difference between a wireless access point and a wireless router?
3. Can anyone recommend a good site for getting to grips with this technology?

Thanks

Chris

[Midknyte]

1. you can use the same modem.

2. a wireless router is a combination router plus access point.

3. http://www.ezlan.net/
look in the wireless section

[lemmy999]

Thanks.
I assume then that i can connect a CAT5 cable from the LAN port on the computer to the LAN in on an access point?

What does a router do that an access point doesn't?

chris

[Midknyte]

a router connects one network to another. in this case, it's your local network to the internet.

a wap is basically a wireless hub.

a wap usually has only one ethernet port. a wireless router with a switch has ports for other computers.

if you don't have a router already, then get a wireless router.

[cat5e]

May be this can Help.

Link to: Wireless Cable/DSL Router or Access Point - What should I get? (http://www.ezlan.net/APvsRoute.html)

Link to: Wireless What Should I Get? (http://www.ezlan.net/Wireless_Hardware.html)

:cool:

[lemmy999]

Maybe i'm just stupid, but the more i read the more confused i get on this subject. I have already looked at the sticky on this one but it doesnt answer my basic question!

[Midknyte]

what's the problem? a wireless router is like taking a router and a WAP and jamming them into one box. if you don't already have a router, then get a wireless router.

Read CAT's links. Lots of good info there.

[kwebb]

Perhaps this will help. There is no such thing as a wireless router. By that I mean wireless devices do not route. 802.11a, b and g Access Points are merely broadcasting wireless hubs. The NAT router part of the "wireless router" is what routes the traffic.

Frankly it's just not that hard to digest if you understand what a hub is and does. All you have to do is substitute cat5 cable for electromagnetic waves in your head because that is the difference in topology terms. No wires. That's it. Midknyte explained that the wireless router is an AP and cheap router, integrated with a switch into an all in one solution.

Perhaps you can ask specific questions if you are still having trouble. Router's and AP's are apples and oranges. They don't do anything alike so there's really nothing to compare between them.