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Network Infrastructure Magazine | Thursday, July 29, 2021
Wireless LANs, wireless MANs, wireless PANs, and wireless WANs all have unique size, range, and connectivity requirements.
FREMONT, CA: Wireless networks are classified into four types: wireless local area networks, wireless metropolitan area networks, wireless personal area networks, and wireless wide area networks. Each type serves a distinct purpose.
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Below are the different types of wireless networks and the associated equipment and connections.
Wireless LAN
Wireless LAN (WLAN) technology enables access to the internet within a building or a small outdoor area. WLAN technology was initially used in offices and homes but is now being used in stores and restaurants. Home networks have grown in popularity due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has forced office workers, students, and teachers to work and study from home.
The majority of home network designs are straightforward. A modem connects to a cable or fibre optic connection provided by a local service provider. A wireless router is connected to the modem and receives the signal from it. It then broadcasts the signal using a wireless protocol, such as the 802.11 standards.
The networks in offices are more complicated. The ceiling is mounted with access points (APs), each of which broadcasts a wireless signal to the surrounding area. Large offices require multiple access points, each connected via a wired connection to a switch to the office's backbone network.
Wireless MAN
Worldwide, wireless metropolitan area networks have been installed to access people who are not connected to an office or home network. Although these networks span a larger area than office or home networks, the fundamentals remain the same. APs are distributed throughout the coverage area on the sides of buildings or telephone poles. APs are wired to the internet and broadcast a wireless signal throughout the region. Users connect to their desired destination by connecting with the nearest AP, which then forwards the connection via its internet connection.
Wireless PAN
Wireless personal area networks (PANs) typically cover a minimum area–usually no more than 100 metres for most applications–via protocols such as Bluetooth and Zigbee. Bluetooth enables hands-free phone calls, connects a phone to earpieces, and wirelessly transmits data between compatible intelligent devices. Zigbee is used to connect stations in an IoT network. Infrared technology is limited to direct line of sight connections, such as connecting television remotes to televisions.
Wireless developers have continuously improved technology by devising novel methods of signal transmission to users. These advancements enable each of these wireless technologies to achieve higher data rates and greater range.
WAN wireless
Wireless WANs make use of cellular technology to extend the reach of a wireless LAN or metropolitan network. These networks enable users to connect to others via a wireless WAN or a wired telephone system. Additionally, users can connect to the internet to view websites or use server-based applications.
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