Client Adapters
Network configurations using the client adapters

The client adapter can be used in a variety of network configurations. In some configurations, APs provide connections to the wired network or act as repeaters to increase the wireless communication range. The maximum communication range is based on how the wireless network is configured.

Ad Hoc WLAN
An ad hoc, or peer-to-peer, WLAN is the simplest WLAN configuration. It is shown in Figure . In a WLAN using an ad hoc network configuration, all devices equipped with a client adapter can communicate directly with one another. It is also called an independent basic service set (IBSS) or a microcell.

Operating systems such as Windows 98 and Windows 2000 have made this type of network very easy to set up. This topology can be used for a small office or home office to allow a laptop to be connected to the main PC, or for several people to simply share files.

The primary drawback for this type of network is coverage limitation. Everyone must be able to hear everyone else.

Wireless Infrastructure with Workstations Accessing a Wired LAN
A WLAN that is connected to a wired infrastructure comprises a basic service set (BSS). Placing two or more access points on a LAN can extend the BSS. Figure shows such an extended service set (ESS) microcellular network, with workstations accessing a wired LAN through access points.

This configuration is useful with portable or mobile stations because it allows them to be directly connected to the wired network even while moving from one microcell domain to another. This process is transparent and the connection to the file server or host is maintained without disruption. The mobile station stays connected to an access point as long as it can. Once the STA moves out of range the station automatically searches for and associates to another AP. This process is referred to as roaming.