Wireless Home Networking - Index of

In This Chapter
� Finding out about Bluetooth
Chapter 3
Bluetooth and Other
Wireless Networks
� Understanding the difference between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
� Integrating Bluetooth into your home network
� Extending your wireless home network with “no new wires” networking products
� Using your phone and powerlines to extend your network
� Wirelessly controlling your home
Getting the most from computer technology is all about selecting the
best and most dominant technology standards. The most dominant
technology for wireless home networks is clearly the 802.11 (Wi-Fi) family of
technologies defined by the 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n standards
(which we describe in Chapter 2). Wi-Fi is, simply, the reason why you’re
reading this book. It’s the technology that has made wireless networks such
a huge hit.
But, Wi-Fi isn’t the only game in town. You run into other home networking
standards when you buy and install your Wi-Fi gear — standards that make
it easier to get Wi-Fi where you want it.
Another popular wireless technology is Bluetooth (a short-range wireless networking
system that’s built into many cellular phones). Even if you intend to
purchase and use only Wi-Fi wireless networking equipment, you should still
be aware of Bluetooth. Who knows? It may come in handy.
We also talk about a few other key wired home networking standards (oops,
did we say a dreaded word: wired?) such as HomePlug, the standard for networking
over your electrical power cables in your home. As surprising as it
may seem, you can actually connect your computers, access points, and
other devices over these in-wall cables. What’s more, many APs come with
these interfaces onboard to make it easier for you to install that AP wherever
you want it. Isn’t that nice? You betcha.