Anywhere Computing with Laptops: Making Mobile Easier

Chapter 11. Networking Without Wires

IN THIS CHAPTER

• Understanding networks in general

• Hardware components of a wired network

• Adding Wi-Fi capability to an existing network versus creating a Wi-Fi network from scratch

• Equipment you'll need to add Wi-Fi capability to your network or to create a Wi-Fi network

Wireless networking—Wi-Fi—is a great tool for more than mobile computing. You can use Wi-Fi at home or in the office to construct a network without the hassle (and expense) of dealing with wires and drilling holes through the walls. Furthermore, using Wi-Fi for your home or small office network gives you the freedom to work wherever you'd like: in the garden, in the kitchen, in bed, or maybe even in a bubble bath. (Where are waterproof laptops ...