Question about wireless network setup

[joshw10]

I just setup a wireless LAN in my new apartment. There are a couple other wireless networks in the building, using WEP security. Do I want to have my network running on a different channel than any of the others? Right now my channel is 11 (G). Other networks use 11 (B), 1 (B), and 1 (G). Of course i have no idea what any of this means

 

[CalvinHobbes]

The channels are like a cordless phone's channels. Like the frequency it uses to communicate. I would use a different channel from what anyone else is using if you can. The B and G probably indicate 802.11g and 802.11b.

 

[FlyingPenguin]

Multiple Access Points with the same channel can be used in the same building, but it's better if you do use a seperate channel. Avoids interference problems. ALSO use a unique name for the SSID name. I've seen Wifi NICs that had a problem connecting to an AP if there was more than one AP with the same SSID.

You should definately use encryption yourself if you don't want your neighbors leaching your internet access. I would use WPA if your Wifi gear supports it. WEP is very easy to crack by someone who knows what he's doing.

 

[casper114]

128 BIT WEP isn't so easily cracked and if it is I would like to know how you are going about it.