Page 23 - DCAP311_DCAP607_WIRELESS_NETWORKS

Unit 1: Introduction to Wireless Networks

1.5 Benefits of Wireless Networks Notes

Wireless LANs offer the following productivity, convenience, and cost advantages over wired
networks:
z z Mobility: Wireless LAN systems can provide LAN users with access to real-time
information anywhere in their organization. This mobility supports productivity and
service opportunities not possible with wired networks. There are now thousands of
universities, hotels and public places with public wireless connection. These free you from
having to be at home or at work to access the Internet.
z z Installation Speed and Simplicity: Installing a wireless LAN system can be fast and easy
and can eliminate the need to pull cable through walls and ceilings.
z z Reduced Cost-of-Ownership: While the initial investment required for wireless LAN
hardware can be higher than the cost of wired LAN hardware, overall installation expenses
and life-cycle costs can be significantly lower. Long-term cost benefits are greatest in
dynamic environments requiring frequent moves and changes.

z z Scalability: Wireless LAN systems can be configured in a variety of topologies to meet
the needs of specific applications and installations. Configurations are easily changed and
range from peer-to-peer networks suitable for a small number of users to full infrastructure
networks of thousands of users that enable roaming over a broad area Wireless networks
are a product of convenience for society. Using a wireless network allows an individual to
access the internet when he is not connected to a computer with an ethernet cable. Wireless
Networks can be used by devices such as cell phones, laptops, and handheld computers. A
wireless network is operated by a network of cellular towers and satellites.
z z Security: When using wireless networks, security is an issue. Make sure it is a password
protected network if you are surfing the internet and entering personal information.

z z Convenience: Wireless Networks can help make connecting to the internet much more
convenient. You don’t need an ethernet connection so you can connect anywhere with a
strong enough signal and a wireless network that is publicly accessible without a password.

z z Devices: Many different devices can be used over a wireless network. These include laptop
computers, Cellular phones, Blackberry devices, and handheld computers.

z z Speed: Wireless networks are less reliable with connection speeds than connections using
an ethernet cable. This is due to the risk of dead spots where the signal is either weak or
non existant. Weather, and signal interference also play a role in weakening a connection.

Task Compare the devices used in the wireless networks.

Self-Assessment

Fill in the blanks:
9. WPANs are .................................-range networks that use Bluetooth technology
10. Wireless PANs don’t require much ................................. to operate, making them ideal for
small user devices
11. Several companies offer a wireless PAN USB adapter, which is also called a .............................
11. ................................. offers the promise of unhindered access to network resources even
outside the reach of a wired setup.

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