Re: Seeking information about wireless network -- PCTECH

Range ..
Linksys in makes accessories for it's wireless routers to extend the
range, such as high gain antennas and kits to mount the antennas up
high.  Also, there are wireless range extenders (such as
http://www.cdw.com/shop/products/default.aspx?EDC=995986) that should
cover 200' with no problem.  You can use more than one of these to get
all of both buildings covered.  As noted in another email, you might
need to locate the wireless equipment by windows or in an attic if the
brick causes issues.  If you are getting all of the equipment at the
same time you can get it all from the same manufacturer, which makes
it easier to get working.

Security ..
As John noted, turn on one of the security protocols with a strong
passphrase and turn off the SSID broadcast on the wireless router.
This should be easy on whichever router is chosen.  WEP is kind of
weak, but anything you will buy now should have WPA which is more than
sufficient.  Don't allow the other board members to soft-pedal
security; there is certainly sensitive and personal information of the
pastor's laptop, and everyone considers communication with clergy as
confidential.  As if they would want their contribution history or
their email conversations with the pastor posted on the web.

TOS ..
As far as the TOS, a call to the DSL provider is the fastest way to
deal with it.  I can see a TOS violation if residential service is
used to provide internet access for a business, but the provider can
clear it up.  Perhaps a better solution is to get service for the
church, and extend it to include the parsonage.

Good luck!

On 1/4/07, Rick.Chevalier@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
<Rick.Chevalier@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:


I need some information/advice on the feasibility of using a wireless
network between our church parsonage and the church building.  I
searched the archives but I'm still fuzzy on what I need to be concerned
about.

Specifically I'm interested in formation about the following:
        Security
        Distance of signal
        Possible TOS issues

It has been suggested that we purchase DSL for the parsonage which sits
about 75 - 100 feet behind the church building.  Out pastor used a
laptop and wants to be able to use the home DSL connection from his
office about 150 - 200 feet from the parsonage.  I think it is presumed
that the DSL connection will also be available for use in the church
office (same distance as pastor's office) but I'm pretty sure that would
be a TOS violation.  Both the house and church have brick exterior walls
and there would be two or three interior walls for the signal to go
through before reaching the pastor's office.

I am one of two board members with a technical background but neither of
us use wireless home networks.  So far the remaining board members don't
see the need to worry about security because they don't use anything on
their connections.

Any information/advice on the above questions or anything I haven't
thought about would be greatly appreciated.

Rick