A Guide to Wireless Network Technology – Types and Advantage

Introduction

A network is any arrangement of systems, people, or objects connected by a communication channel. Wireless networking is any form of communication that sends and receives data or voice. A wireless network uses electromagnetic waves as the communication medium.

Wireless technology is a modern replacement for traditional wired networking. It depends on wireless technologies, while wired networks use wires to link digital devices together. Read on to learn more about wireless networking, types, and more.

What is the Definition of a Wireless Network?

Wireless system makes use of radio frequency connections for connecting to network nodes. It also allows devices to connect to the network when roaming within the coverage area. Therefore, these networks are popular business, home, and telecommunications solutions.

Furthermore, the wireless connection is an economical solution to set up an Internet network system. Because there is no need for a cable, everyone in the family can use their gadgets in the house. Additionally, wireless networking enables quick network connections for additional devices. The core difference between wired and wireless connection arises from a single feature. Wired networks connect devices, including laptops, PCs, mobile phones, etc., to the Internet through wires. 

Components of a Wireless Network System

You need three key components to set up a wireless system:

1. Access Points

It is a type of technology known that serves as a link between the wired and wireless worlds. So, a wireless access point helps clients to connect to the Internet through wireless technology. Additionally, an access point may offer connectivity to other wireless networks.

2. Clients

A device that needs to access the internet is a client. Laptops, desktop PCs, handhelds, PDAs, mobile phones, and other similar gadgets are examples of clients.

3. Routers

This device forwards data packets between various parts of a network. A large number of routers transmit and receive data using Ethernet technology. However, some of the latest routers use WiFi network technology.

Working of the Wireless Networks

They work in the following steps:
 

• Similar to a wired network, a wireless local area network (WLAN) connects a set of computers. But, the main benefit of "wireless" is that it is easier, quicker, and less expensive. You can easily set it up because it does not require costly cabling.

• Radio Frequency (RF) technology uses a frequency related to the transmission of radio waves within the electromagnetic spectrum. RF operates wireless networks. The creation of an electromagnetic field takes place when an antenna receives an RF current. It can also travel over space.

• Access Point is the core of a wireless network. The main job of an access point is to transmit a wireless signal that computers detect and tune into. Thus, Access points serve as a gateway to resources on a wired network, like an Internet connection.

• Furthermore, to connect to an access point and join a wireless network, you need to equip computers with adapters. Most of these are already present in the device. But if not, you can make almost any computer wirelessly capable via an add-on adapter. Couple this adapter with an open expansion slot, USB port, or, in the case of notebooks, a PC card slot.

Types of Wireless Connections

Below are the four main types of wireless network connections:

1. WAN

A Wide Area Network links computers across a huge geographic area like a country or continent. For example, the internet.

2. MAN

A Metropolitan Area Network links big groups of computers from various locations across a city or region.

3. LAN

Local Area Networking (LAN) describes the most popular type of wireless networking. A wireless LAN connects multiple computers within a single building or small group of buildings.

4. PAN

Personal Area Networking (PAN) is another popular form of wireless technology. It connects one or more portable electronic devices and a larger network via a personal area network. These devices can be such as cell phones, PDAs, digital cameras, and video game consoles.

Also Read:- What is a Sensor? Different Types of Sensors and Their Applications

Wireless Networking Technology Examples

Modern communications depend greatly on wireless networking. Moreover, its new versions will be a key component of robotics, drones, self-driving cars, and other cutting-edge technologies. Popular examples of wireless networking include:
 

• Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
• Cell phone networks
• Television and Radio Broadcasting
• Satellite Communication
• SiriusXM satellite radio
• Cordless Phones
• Wireless sensor networks
• Radar
• AM radio
• Bluetooth
• Paging
• Terrestrial microwave networks
• FM radio
• HD Radio

Advantages and Disadvantages of Wireless Network 

Advantages
 

1. There is no need for wires; you can configure any physical connection.
2. It is simple to set up and expand a wireless network.
3. It offers networking in locations like rural areas, battlegrounds, etc. where wiring is not practical.
4. When compared to a wired network, wireless networking is more versatile and flexible.
5. It also has good usage mobility.
6. Data transfer through wireless networks happens quickly.
7. Low upkeep costs for any wireless communication.
8. The wireless network is generally less expensive because it requires no cables and is simple to build.
9. It is portable and moveable and you can reinstall it easily in new locations.

Disadvantages
 

1. Communication is less secure because it takes place in a public setting.
2. Unreliability
3. More open to attack.
4. High likelihood of jamming.
5. The transmission speed is also slower.
6. It is limited in communication bandwidth and is prone to security attacks on the network.
7. Wireless networking is also vulnerable to hacking.
8. They need a careful radio frequency while installing.
9. Setup is challenging for those with little experience.

Why Go for wireless technology?

Regardless of the protocols or kind of information they carry, wireless networks all have several important features. The most visible benefit of wireless networking is mobility. So, users of wireless networks can connect to existing networks and then move around freely. Because the phone connects the user via cell towers, a mobile phone user can cover miles in a single call.

These networks usually offer a lot of flexibility, which can lead to quick adoption. Therefore, users connect to an existing network using various base stations in wireless networks. Furthermore, you can see other benefits in the advantages above.

Conclusion

This blog explains wireless networks including their operation and some standards. Due to its flexibility and simplicity of installation, wireless technology has become quite popular. Users of a wireless network can move around freely while staying connected to the network. Thus, it eliminates their concern over tangled cords. Moreover, they avoid the inconvenience of plugging in their laptops or desktops.

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