MCSA/MCSE Self-Paced Training Kit (Exam 70-270): Installing ...

15-32 Chapter 15 Configuring Network and Internet Connections
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■ Access point (AP) An access point (AP) provides an interface with which stations
can communicate. APs are the bridge between the wireless stations and an existing
network backbone, allowing wireless clients to communicate with the network. APs
can be stand-alone devices, but are often combined with other network devices
such as routers.
■ Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS) An independent basic service set (IBSS)
represents a wireless network that consists of two or more stations, but does not
have an AP. This type of network, shown in Figure 15-16, is often referred to as an
ad-hoc wireless network. Ad-hoc networks offer the advantage of being able to
spontaneously create wireless network connections between stations with little
configuration required. However, ad-hoc networks are considerably less secure
and configurable than basic service set networks that include an AP.
Station Station
Figure 15-16 An IBSS, or ad-hoc wireless network, has wireless stations but no AP.
■ Basic Service Set A basic service set (BSS) represents a network that allows stations
to communicate through an AP, as shown in Figure 15-17. This type of network is often
referred to as an infrastructure wireless network. In a BSS, all stations communicate
through the AP. The AP provides connectivity to the wired LAN and provides
bridging functionality when one station initiates communication to another station.
Basic Service Set
Station Station
Access Point
Figure 15-17 A BSS, or infrastructure wireless network, has wireless stations that
communicate through an AP.