Field Guide to Wireless LANs for Administrators and Power Users, A

IEEE 802.11 Wireless LAN Devices

Clearly, to make a WLAN, one needs at least two devices to make an ad hoc network, and at least three devices to make an infrastructure network (an infrastructure network with one STA and one AP would be possible, but the STA would not have any other STAs with which to communicate…). As a practical requirement, one also needs a wired network (the Distribution System in IEEE 802.11 parlance) to which the AP may be attached.

APs are available at a variety of price points. Entry-level IEEE 802.11b APs for home use might be available (refurbished) for less than $40. On the opposite end of the price spectrum, APs designed for corporate deployment will cost up to $750 or more. The latter type of AP distinguishes itself ...