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A WLAN modem allows computers to communicate wirelessly and share an internet connection. It has a built-in router and requires a wireless network card to connect to computers. The Wi-Fi Alliance certifies products for interoperability, and the IEEE establishes wireless communication protocols. Mobile wireless modems provide internet access on the go. When purchasing a WLAN modem, compatibility with existing devices and support for the latest standards should be considered.
A wireless local area network (WLAN) modem is a radio frequency (RF) device that allows local computers to communicate with each other wirelessly. It also allows all computers on the network to share a single Internet connection. A traditional WLAN modem sits on a desktop to provide network connectivity to a home, commercial building or general premises. There are also mobile wireless modems that provide an access point or hotspot on the go.
A WLAN modem has a built-in router to route traffic on the local network. The router tracks the origin of requests and sends responses to the appropriate machine by reading data packets with unique address information. The router also handles requests made to and from the Internet when a connection is available.
To communicate with a WLAN modem, computers require a wireless network card. The card consists of a radio transmitter and receiver, just like the WLAN modem. The network card does not include a router, as it is only designed to connect a single computer to the network. Network cards are usually internal, but external wireless network adapters can also be purchased.
Wireless communication protocols are standardized so that competing manufacturers can produce products that will interact. The standards are established by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), an international non-profit group. Protocols follow a numerical designation of 802.11, followed by a letter indicating the exact flavor of the protocol. For example, 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g and 802.11n are four wireless standards, the latter two being the most recent incarnations. Wireless network cards must share at least a common 802.11 standard with the WLAN modem in order to successfully exchange data.
The Wi-Fi Alliance is an international group that promotes wireless technology. Certifies submitted products as Wi-Fi compliant when those products meet strict interoperability standards. The products can therefore carry the Wi-Fi approval logo. Devices bearing the logo are essentially guaranteed to work together for potentially smoother networks. A true Wi-Fi network consists of certified hardware only.
Wi-Fi certification is not free for manufacturers, so Wi-Fi approved hardware is more expensive. In general, businesses might opt for a Wi-Fi network, while the extra money is likely wasted on most home networks. An uncertified WLAN modem will usually be less expensive.
In addition to the desktop WLAN modem, a mobile access point or roaming hotspot is created from a wireless modem designed to go on the go. These compact modems come in a variety of sizes, from USB dongles to sleek cards, using cellular technology to provide Internet access to multiple devices. An account with a mobile operator is required.
When purchasing a WLAN modem, take note of the wireless protocols or cellular standards supported by the device to make sure it is compatible with existing network cards or devices. To future-proof your investment, it’s best to purchase a product that supports the latest standards, although backwards compatibility with an older standard can also delay the need to upgrade older boards or products.
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