This plain English guide to the 802.11b wireless networking standard teaches readers how to use wireless networks at home, work, or in their neighborhood. Included is detailed, practical information on access points, network interface cards, cables and antennas, and wireless software. Readers will learn how to protect their wireless access point from unwanted intruders with encryption, password protection, and virtual private networks (VPNs), as well as how to configure wireless connections for Windows, Macintosh, Linux, Unix, and PDAs.