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Wireless networks connect computers and peripherals without wires, allowing for easy communication. The 802.11 standard is used by almost all wireless networks, with subsections indicating speed and technology. Newer standards, such as 802.11(g) and 802.11(n), offer increased range and speed. WiMax is another type of wireless network that can extend for hundreds of miles, while Bluetooth is limited and slow.
A wireless network, as the name suggests, is a network of computers and computer peripherals connected to each other without wires. This allows for ease of communication, especially for mobile computing platforms. Additionally, there are a number of other benefits to a wireless network that make them increasingly common in both the workplace and home.
Almost all wireless networks in the world work on a standard established by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers known as the 802.11 standard. Depending on the technology involved, there are subsections. These are usually listed on the accompanying material packaging which gave the user an idea of the speed and extent of technology a unit possesses.
For example, when you look at a wireless router, which is what allows different computers on a network to communicate, it might be labeled 802.11(b). Many of the routers, when wireless networking technology first became popular, carried this designation. Due to the age of technology, it is cheaper than currently available but can still be used. It has a maximum transfer rate of 11 megabits per second (Mbps).
Since this technology has hit the market, other wireless networking standards have also been introduced. These include 802.11(g) and 802.11(n). Each, respectively, represents a next generation of technology. The (g) standard has increased range and speed, allowing up to 54 Mbps. The (n) standard not only allows for good range and even greater speeds, but is also better able to resist interference from other wireless sources. All 802.11 standards use radio signals for communication.
In addition to these sources, used in more limited geographical areas, WiMax is another type of wireless network. This type of network depends on line of sight, but as long as the view is unobstructed it can extend for hundreds of miles or kilometers. However, this technology depends on a larger antenna and converter to make communication possible. Even if data is carried over a WiMax network, it can still pass through a standard 802.11 network before reaching a workstation.
Bluetooth, while not really considered a type of wireless networking technology, does meet this definition. However, this type of wireless technology is very limited and very slow, making it not very practical in most cases. However, some handheld computers, along with cell phones, can use this technology for a very limited number of tasks.
