Linksys WAP11 Wireless-B Network Access Point

Average customer rating: 3.5

Great Customer Service
What a failure...
Does anyone know what Version Amazon is selling here?
Good For What it does, Bad Documentation
Research before you buy

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Linksys WAP11 Wireless-B Network Access Point

Manufacturer: Linksys
Product Group: CE
Binding: Electronics
ASIN: B00005854B

Related Categories:

Wireless

Electronics Available for International Shipping

| Specialty Stores | Electronics Features | Electronics

802.11b Standard

Access Points

All Wireless

Wireless-B (802.11b)

802.11b Standard

Access Points

Wireless Network Routers & Access Points

Product Description

An external wireless network access point for wireless networks based on the IEEE 802.11b standard

Amazon.com Review

The Linksys Instant Wireless Access Point (WAP) serves as communications headquarters for a reliable 11 Mbps wireless network. We found the WAP, used in conjunction with the Linksys Instant Wireless PC Card (and PCI adapter if the wireless card is used in a desktop PC) and a hub or switch, to be a true leader in the move toward wireless networking. In case you're confused, here's a graph illustrating the differences between an access point and a router with access point: <IMG alt="access point vs. router" align="center" border=0 src="http://images.amazon.com/images/G/01/electronics/misc/access-vs-wireless-chart.gif"

The unit itself is handsome and somewhat reminiscent of the rabbit-ears antenna system used on older televisions. Installing the WAP involves several steps. A USB connection allows for configuration, and installing the USB configuration software allows for monitoring and adjusting settings such as channel, IP address, and service set identifier (SSID). Connecting the unit to a hub or switch using Category 5 cable (which is not included) gives the WAP network access and the ability to begin sending meaningful signals.

The WAP has three indicator lights: Power, link, and activity. The link indicator lights up amber when a link is established with the hub, and the activity light flickers somewhat uncertainly when there is network activity. The antennas can be adjusted left and right, and we found that pointing them in the direction of the wireless computer resulted in a stronger signal.

We found the accompanying user guide somewhat lacking; it gave little guidance on how the network can be configured. And the customer service hotline unfortunately does little more than refer you to your computer's manufacturer. Those who are new to networking may want to bone up on the basics before beginning on a wireless network endeavor--plenty of resources exist on the Web and in print to guide your networking foray. But for those who are transforming an existing wired network into a wireless one, the transition will be fairly painless and straightforward.

In use, the WAP performs well: In the same room, the signal strength to and from the Linksys wireless network card is consistently above 95 percent. We separated the card from the access point by one plaster wall and found that the signal strength was reduced to around 80 percent. Separating them with a closeted wall pulled the signal strength down to about 50 percent. At opposite ends of the home (with numerous plaster walls between), the signal strength maintains at about 35 percent.

The rate of data transmission declines proportionately, starting at an ideal 11 Mbps and dropping to 3 or 4 Mbps at extreme distance and separation. While still reliable, the main difference in performance we noticed was in the basic data-transmitting functions: Slower copying, pasting, opening, and access of resources on other network nodes. While these speeds don't lend themselves well to intensive LAN game play, they are suitable for sharing data between resources, as well as sharing print resources.

Overall, the Linksys wireless package is optimal for those not wishing to string cable throughout a home or office. While performance and speed are comparable to slower wired networks, this is a ready solution for those who need a world without wires, for whatever reason. This package is also ideal for those who are comfortable with networking configurations and troubleshooting, and are ready to take the leap into wireless. --Emilie Dirks

Pros: <ul>

Easy resource sharing that's ideal for small office and home office

Simple installation and fairly straightforward configuration </ul>

Cons: <ul>

Transmission speeds much lower than current fast Ethernet connections (on wired networks)

Lackluster customer support and documentation </ul>

See a comparison diagram of the different wireless technologies.</td> <td width="58%" align="left" valign="top">

Wireless networks are rapidly becoming more popular and coming down in price. Since they don't require cables, you can use the devices anywhere in an office or home, even out on the patio. There's no need to roll out an Ethernet network cable to each room of a house; you can network anywhere--without wires. Outside of the home, wireless networking is available in hotspots at coffee shops, businesses, and airports--great when you're on the road and need to get some work done. For convenience, wireless networking is the answer.

Which Wireless Standard Is Right for Me? 
Now that you've decided to create a wireless network, the next step is to figure out which wireless standard to use.

Basically, a standard is a set of specifications for a device. All devices that follow a specific standard share operating characteristics, such as the radio frequency used and maximum data transfer speed.

For wireless networking, there are three standards to choose from at this time: <ul>

802.11b </li>

802.11a </li>

802.11g</li> </ul>

To learn about the differences between the standards and select the right one for your network, click here for an easy-to-understand chart.</td> </tr> </table>

Amazon.com Product Description

The WAP11 Instant Wireless Access Point from Linksys delivers the freedom to configure Ethernet networks your way. Use of advanced wireless technology gives you the ability to set up workstations in ways you never though possible; no cables to install means less expense and less hassle. The WAP11 operates at ranges up to 150 meters (492 feet) indoors and 500 meters (1,640 feet) outdoors. It provides seamless roaming throughout your wireless LAN infrastructure; an advanced user authentication feature ensures a high level of network security.

The Linksys Instant Wireless Network Access Point is easy to install (just plug in and it's ready to go) and easy to use--Windows-based diagnostic and statistical tools ensure complete control. WAP11 is configurable through a USB port or an Ethernet connection and is fully interoperable with IEEE 802.11b (DSSS) 2.4 GHz-compliant equipment. It comes complete with an AC adapter, a CD-ROM, a user's manual, a registration card, two detachable antennas, and a USB cable. Linksys's WAP11 is compatible with PCs with USB support or Ethernet connection; running Windows 95, 98, Me, 2000 Professional, or NT 4.0; and having at least 500 KB hard disk space.

Linksys provides a one-year parts and labor warranty on the WAP11 and provides free technical support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (North America only). Please note that the Wireless Signal Booster is certified by the FCC for use with the WAP11--Wireless Access Point and BEFW11S4--Wireless Access Point Router only.

See a comparison diagram of the different wireless technologies.</td> <td width="58%" align="left" valign="top">

Wireless networks are rapidly becoming more popular and coming down in price. Since they don't require cables, you can use the devices anywhere in an office or home, even out on the patio. There's no need to roll out an Ethernet network cable to each room of a house; you can network anywhere -- without wires. Outside of the home, wireless networking is available in hotspots at coffee shops, businesses, airports -- great when you're on the road and need to get some work done. For convenience, wireless networking is the answer.

What Wireless Standard is Right for Me? 
Now that you've decided to create a wireless network, the next step is to figure out which wireless standard to use.

802.11b </li>

802.11a </li>

802.11g</li> </ul>

To learn about the differences between the standards and select the right one for your network, click here for an easy-to-understand chart.</td> </tr> </table>

Customer Reviews:

Great Customer Service.......2007-02-21

Your Lowest Price has the best customer service. I love buying from this company,

What a failure..........2006-06-08

I bought two of those and I could have written a 5 star review back then, like many people did. Out of the box, its a joy...but after less than 2 years, the failed one after the other and Linksys support said this was common hardward failure. A big waste of money.

Does anyone know what Version Amazon is selling here?.......2005-10-07

There is no mention of it and the manual appears to be for a different version than what is on Linksys's website. There doesn't appear to be anyway to ask Amazon a question about this.

Good For What it does, Bad Documentation.......2005-09-16

I was told by a Linksys Rep that this item can be used extend the range of my network. After wasting many hours with Technical people that did not know what they were taliking about I spoke to a level 2 technition who explained that the purpose of this device is to plug into a wired network and enable it to be wireless. What I needed was a range extender. I Did use it for my wired network at work and it does work for that purpose.

Research before you buy.......2005-08-30

Be sure you know exactly what you need before you buy when it comes to Linksys products. Just because it is "wireless" and conforms to the 801.11b standard, doesn't mean it's going to be compatible to other Linksys wireless products. If in doubt about a particular application, ask the Linksys helpline. It turns out this WAP will not communicate with my router. The lights on the front sure are pretty though!

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