What is the difference between a WLAN and WAP?
The WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) card is the basic “wireless adapter” which connects PC users to others (on one of 13 possible U.K. wireless network channels) via an aerial at up to 11,000 Kbits/sec. For just a few PCs this kind of casual “adhoc network” is ideal but raises “continuous running” and “insoluble antenna positioning” problems when more than just a few locations are to be covered. A Wireless Access Point (WAP) connects a large number of WLAN equipped PCs (up to 256) with much more efficient management of the radio environment. When activity expands in a neighbourhood, a group of private users can benefit from a Wireless Access Point (WAP) set up as a club or community project. Alternatively a local business such as a computer shop or The Village Post Office might provide a WAP as a community business service. With 13 separate channels at present there is room for choice. One major technical advantage by moving to a formal “star and hub” layout for wireless is that all
