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of specific applications and installations. Configurations are easily changed and range
from peer-to-peer networks suitable for a small number of users to full infrastructure
networks of thousands of users that enable roaming over a broad area.
What are the disadvantages of Wireless LANs?
The speed of Wireless LANs is still relatively slower than that of wired LAN. The most
popular wired LAN standard operates at 100 Mbps, which is more than 4 times of
that of Wireless LAN (effectively around 25 Mbps). A faster wired LAN standard (1000
Mbps), which is 40 times faster, is becoming popular as well. The setup cost of
Wireless LAN is relatively higher because the equipment costs which includes access
points and Wireless LAN cards is higher than hubs and CAT 5 cables.
Where can you find wireless 802.11 networks?
Airports, hotels, and even coffee shops like Starbucks are deploying 802.11 networks
so that customers can wirelessly access the Internet with their laptops. As these
types of networks spread, this will create additional security risk for remote users if
not properly protected.
What is an Access Point?
The AP (access point also known as a base station) is a wireless server with an
antenna and a wired Ethernet connection that broadcasts information using radio
signals. An AP typically acts as a bridge for the clients. It can pass information to
wireless LAN cards that have been installed in computers or laptops allowing those
computers to connect to the campus network and the Internet without wires.
What is IEEE 802.11?
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