42
3. Ad-hoc networks are also susceptible to network breakdown due to
their decentralized nature.
Figure (3) shows the ad-hoc network functioning properly, as all clients are able to
communicate with each other. Figure (4) demonstrates how easy it is, though, for
an ad-hoc network to break down. Because the client node in the middle is
performing all of the routing for the other nodes, as soon as the client in the middle
exits the network or changes locations, the entire network breaks down.
Conclusion: SoftGate is less susceptible to problems related to ad-hoc
networks.
Because SoftGate works as a true 802.11 wireless access point, client nodes do not
rely on each other for routing and traffic management. It is the responsibility of the
SoftGate host PC to centrally manage the wireless network. As long as client nodes
can “hear” the SoftGate host PC, they are virtually guaranteed a solid connection,
free from the unexpected drops or diminishing throughput that results from the
“hidden node” problem. In addition, it is easy for client nodes to “hear” the SoftGate
host PC because SoftGate functions as a true 802.11 access point, and is therefore
compatible with the RTS/CTS mechanism. Figure (5) shows SoftGate successfully
managing all of the client node traffic in the network.
L a p to p c o m p u te r
L a p to p c o m p u te r
L a p to p c o m p u te r
L a p to p c o m p u te r
L a p to p c o m p u te r
S o ftA P
E n a b le d P C
Laptop computer
Laptop computer
Laptop computer
Laptop computer
Laptop computer
Laptop computer
Laptop computer
Laptop computer
Laptop computer
Laptop computer
Figure 3: Ad-Hoc network functioning properly
Figure 4: Ad-Hoc network breaks down when central node
exits
Figure 5: SoftGate host is a true AP, centrally managing client traffic.
Summary of Contents for SoftGate
Page 25: ...25 Choice the Change Admin Password to change your SoftGate password...
Page 49: ...49 2 1 QUETEC SoftGate PCMCIA PCI USB SoftGate 2 2 SoftGate ME 2000 XP IE SoftGate...
Page 50: ...50 2 3 QUETEC SoftGate PCMCIA USB SoftGate PCI PCI PCI SoftGate softGate...
Page 52: ...52 SoftGate PII 366MHz 128MB ME 2000 XP...
Page 53: ...53 QUETEC SoftGate 2000 XP SoftGate PCMCIA SoftGate SoftGate...
Page 54: ...54 Next Yes No SoftGate Next Express Yes...
Page 55: ...55 PCMCIA USB SoftGate PCMCIA USB...
Page 56: ...56 SoftGate Next Finish SoftGate SoftGate...
Page 60: ...60 QUETEC SoftGate 6 1 SoftGate QUETEC SoftGate SoftGate SoftGate SoftGate SoftGate...
