Wireless Network
Top speed at the cost of no cables - hello wireless networks
Traditionally computers have been linked together using cables laid out physically at a specific location e.g. office or home. This is approach is still used but is has been replaced with a more versatile approach without the need for and expense of cumbersome cables- wireless networks.
These introduce a rich technology which is fast replacing traditional local area networks. WiFi is one of the standards for wireless local area networks. Devices that are wireless enabled can connect to an appropriate [wireless] network. They also allow access to the internet as well.
MailSure can wireless enable your organisation, deploying experienced engineers using tried and tested quality technology
Wireless networks consist of wireless devices equipped with wireless cards using radio frequency to transmit data from one location to another over short distances typically 50-250m in built up areas and longer for open areas. These wireless networks cards have unique MAC addresses, which are formatted similar to the standard Ethernet addresses.
Devices connect to the wireless network via an access point. These have a limited range and can connect a few computers to hundred plus depending on the capabilities of the access point. However, the signal can be extended using a wireless extension point or a booster. Wireless technology is evolving rapidly. These changes are brining a number of enhancements such as better security, fast speeds, longer ranges etc. The majority of wireless enabled devices are designed to meet industry standards such as 802.11b (up to 11Mbps), 802.11g (up to 54Mbps) and the new 802.11n (up to 300 Mbps). These are proving very popular and are appearing in many public places like schools, offices, cafés, airports, libraries etc. The popularity is due to a number of reasons. The main ones are
- Low cost of installation - no need to lay out cabling, nor disturb office layouts etc.
- Quick to setup.
- Unobtrusive - no unsightly collections of cables.
- Fast speed (up to 300 Mbps).
- Convenience - once a device is configured, it can be used whenever required.
- Wireless devices are becoming more widespread and been built into many devices e.g. PDA's, media players etc.
Moreover, for desktop clients, a WLAN is capable of providing flexibility for an organisation that is otherwise impossible with a traditional LAN. By using a WLAN bridge, networks that are located in a building mile from each other can be integrated into a single local-area network. This is easily installed/setup and low cost. Indeed the low cost is one of the main driving forces behind the popularity of wireless networks. Another alternative is to use a WLAN to connect two separate LANs. It should be noted that conventional LANs are more expensive in terms of installation and maintenance.