Mixed wired and wireless networks
Wireless devices often exist on a largely wired network.
In this case, a
WAP
is connected to the main network by an Ethernet cable plugged
into the WAP's WAN port. The WAP acts as the go-between for the wired devices
and the wireless devices. The wired devices communicate with the WAP over the
Ethernet cable, while the wireless devices communicate with the WAP over radio
waves.
HP Deskjet 6800 series printer
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For example, a mixed wired and wireless network may consist of the following:
• Several desktop computers
• A WAP connected to an Ethernet network
• A printer connected wirelessly to the WAP
In order to use the printer, a desktop PC sends a print job over the Ethernet cable
to the WAP. The WAP then wirelessly transmits the print job to the printer.