W-LANs (Wire less Local Area Networks)

Wireless LANs are used all around the world for communication at nearly the speed of light. Learn about WLANs, their components, and working. Also, learn about the architecture of networks and the principle behind WiFi

1. W-LANs (Wireless Networks) Shaza Fathima A 21UPHA007

2. Table of contents 01 05 Advantages & Disadvantages What is WLAN? Network Architecture WiFi Vs WLAN Components of WLAN 04 02 How does it work? 06 03

3. What is WLAN? A wireless local-area network (WLAN) is a group of colocated computers or other devices that form a network based on radio transmissions rather than wired connections. A Wi-Fi network is a type of WLAN. WLANs are typically restricted in their diameter to buildings, a campus, single rooms etc. and are operated by individuals and not by large scale network providers.

4. Evolution 1996 CSIRO patented wireless networking 2020 WiFi 6 was launched 1970s Cellular mobile communication started 1997 The first version of the 802.11 protocol was released 1 02 03 04

5. Components of WLAN Station All components connected into the wireless medium of the network. Base Service Set A set of stations that can communicate with each other Access Point It transmits and receives data for wireless communication Bridge Wired internetworking unit to other LANS

6. How does it work? Several stations are connected to the access points. Stations are terminals with access mechanisms to the wireless medium and radio contact to the AP. The stations and the AP which are within the same radio coverage form a basic service set (BSS). Two or more BSS are connected via a distribution system. The distribution system connects the wireless networks via the APs with a portal, which forms the interworking unit to other LANS.

7. How does it work?

8. Network Architecture frameworks Ad-Hoc Infrastructure It does not contain any access points. BSS Networks There are two types of BSS architecture in wireless LANs. It contains access points.

9. Infrastructure Networks Infrastructure networks communicate through access points in the system. Communication between the nodes flows through the APs. It works on FIFO algorithm. They have a larger but fixed range compared to adhoc networks. They work on Star network topology. Example: IEEE 802.11 (WiFi) and HiperLAN2 Architecture of Infrastructure IEEE 802.11 network

10. Ad-Hoc Networks Ad Hoc networks don't have access points in their architecture. They can only communicate with the devices in their BSS due to lack of access points. They have a peer to peer topology. They have a very short range. Example: Hotspot connections, bluetooth Architecture of Ad Hoc IEEE 802.11 network

11. WiFi Vs WLAN W WiFi W-Lan WLANs help devices connect and communicate wirelessly. WiFi is a type of WLAN which follows IEEE 802.11 standards Is there any difference between WiFi and WLAN?

12. Advantages & Disadvantages Robustness Design & Planning Cost Flexibility Safety and Security Proprietary solutions Quality of Service Restrictions

13. Summary WLANs are restricted to a certain area. They function by sending data packets from one device to another over radio frequencies. They are used in hospitals, offices, schools, etc. There are two types of architectures: Infrastructure and Ad Hoc. Their main difference is the availability of access points. WiFi is a WLAN but all WLANs are not WiFis.

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