Wireless Media

The extraordinary convenience of wireless communications has placed an increased emphasis on wireless networks in recent years.

Technology is expanding rapidly and will continue to expand into the near future, offering more and better options for wireless networks.

Presently, you can subdivide wireless networking technology into three basic types corresponding to three basic networking scenarios;

a) Local area networks (LANs)

Occasionally you will see a fully wireless LAN, but more typically one or more wireless machines function as members of a cable-based LAN.

b) Extended local networks.

A wireless connection serves as a backbone between two LANs.

For instance, a company with office networks in two nearby but separate buildings could connect those networks using a wireless bridge.

c) Mobile computing.

A mobile machine connects to the home network using cellular or satellite technology.

Reasons for Wireless Networks

1) Spaces where cabling would be impossible or inconvenient. 

These include open lobbies, inaccessible parts of buildings, older buildings, historical buildings where renovation is prohibited, and outdoor installations.

2) People who move around a lot within their work environment.

Network administrators, for instance, must troubleshoot a large office network. Nurses and doctors need to make rounds at a hospital.

3) Temporary installations.

These situations include any temporary department set up for a specific purpose that soon will be torn down or relocated.

4) People who travel outside of the work environment and need instantaneous access to network resources.

5) Satellite offices or branches, ships in the ocean, or teams in remote field locations that need to be connected to a main office or location.