What is Wireless LAN (WLAN) in Computer Networks?

Introduction

The shift from wired to wireless LANs (WLANs) is a result of people’s growing need for portability and adaptability in their everyday lives. WLANs are widespread in the modern world. Wireless LANs are available everywhere, from homes to businesses to cafes to many public spaces, guaranteeing that we will always have access to the internet. WLANs allow us to stay online even while we’re in transit. Because of the freedom it gave its users to roam about while still being productive, smart gadgets have become more popular.

Before getting into more details, let’s first understand what WLAN really is.

What is Wireless LAN in computer networks?

A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), also known as a Wireless LAN, is a network comprising two or more computing devices that communicate through radio waves without the need for physical connections. This stands in contrast to a local area network (LAN) that employs wired connectivity, whereby every computer within the network is physically linked to the network switch or hub via an Ethernet cable.

The majority of WLANs are established on the IEEE 802.11 standard.

Wireless LANs are further classified into two categories, these are:

1. Ad-hoc Wireless LANs

Ad hoc networks are formed by a group of wireless nodes that establish peer-to-peer communication. The ad-hoc mode has been designed to allow communication only among clients within the transmission range, i.e., within the same cell.

If a client wants to communicate outside the cell, then it’s a must that one of the cells acts as the gateway and performs routing.

2. Wireless LANs with Infrastructure

Wireless LANs with infrastructure are equipped with a backbone that operates at high speeds and can be wired or wireless. Access points serve as the intermediary between wireless nodes and the wired backbone. The utilization of access points allows the proficient transfer of network resources among wireless nodes.

Before transmitting information, wireless devices such as clients and access points are required to establish a relationship or association. Data exchange between two wireless stations can only occur once an association has been established.

History of Wireless LANs

In the 1970s, researchers began exploring wireless networks for communications, and in 1971 the world’s first wireless communications computer, ALOHAnet, was developed by Professor Norman Abramson of the University of Hawaii. It transmitted data wirelessly between the Hawaiian Islands, but WLAN cost more and had much lower speeds, so it was used only as an alternative to cable where cabling was difficult or impossible.

• This continued until the 1990s but in October 1997 it became a protocol as 802.11 (a technology term that refers to Wi-Fi) which was approved by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
• In 1999, WLAN was introduced to the public with 802.11a and b support with speeds up to 54 Mbps and 11 Mbps, respectively, which was low. However, it became acceptable due to wireless communication in mobile phones and laptops.
• As technology has changed over time, mobile phones and laptops launching with Wi-Fi usage have become more standardized for both business and personal use.
• So, in 2003, 802.11g was approved with speeds up to 54 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz space.
• In 2009, a new version was approved which was 802.11n which operates in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands with a data transmission rate of 600 Mbit/s.

By far most of the new routers are using both band wireless which helps in data communication without the congested 2.4 GHz band, as these are also transferred to Bluetooth devices and microwave ovens. Whereas the 5 GHz band allows more devices to share space due to more channels compared to 2.4 GHz.

Currently, we are in the world of 802.11ax which was introduced in 2021 and is the 6th generation (the latest in the series) which is now being deployed on many devices every year.

Purpose of WLAN

WLANs are utilized in different circumstances and serve their purpose.

Networking and internet services are seen as essential in modern business computing. There is a growing trend of LAN users transitioning towards mobile usage. Mobile users necessitate network connectivity irrespective of location as they seek simultaneous access to the network. Wireless LANs allow users to access shared information without the need for physical connections to their systems, thereby eliminating the need for network managers to install cables and other equipment to set up networks.

The significance of mobile connectivity is often overlooked; however, it becomes especially critical when one is faced with urgent needs but lacks access to a WLAN.

How Does Wireless Local Area Network Work?

Understanding the functioning of WLAN is straightforward. The operational principles of LAN networking are nearly identical. The only difference is that WLAN allows the connection of devices to a network without the need for a physical cable.

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) employs radio frequency waves to help with the transmission and reception of data among various devices, such as a wireless router and a laptop.

Radio waves are commonly known as radio carriers due to their primary role of transmitting energy to a distant receiver. The radio carrier overlays the transmitted data, thereby allowing its precise retrieval upon reception.

The process is commonly known as modulation. In a wireless local area network setup, a transceiver device, commonly referred to as an access point, establishes a connection to the wired network via standard cabling from a fixed position. The access point functions as an intermediary device that allows the transfer of data between the WLAN and the wired network infrastructure by receiving, buffering, and retransmitting the data.

A single access point can handle a limited number of users and can operate within a distance from under one hundred to multiple hundred feet. Typically, the access point, along with its attached antenna, is installed at an elevated position. However, it may be situated in any feasible location that achieves the desired radio coverage.

Wireless LAN adapters serve as the medium through which end users gain access to the wireless LAN. These adapters are available in the form of add-on cards for notebook or palmtop computers, as cards for desktop computers, or as integrated components within hand-held computers. WLAN adapters allow a communication interface between the client’s network operating system (NOS) and the airwaves through an antenna.

Wireless LAN Architecture

Here are the components of WLAN Architecture –

Stations

Stations are elements of a network that allow wireless communications. They can be either access points or endpoints and both have different network addresses.

Basic Service Set (BSS)

BSS is a group of stations integrated with the network and called independent BSS (IBSS) in ad hoc networks. A group of BSSs connected to a network with multiple access points is known as an Extended Service Set (ESS).

Distribution system

In ESS, access points are connected to the distribution system with wired or wireless connectivity. Wireless distribution systems (WDS) use mesh or their own WDS protocol. And connecting geographically separated access points in a unique form of radio transmission called fixed wireless.

Access point

The access point acts as a base station that allows connectivity to other stations and the “access” refers to both the station’s network connectivity and Internet access as many routers also act as modems. Access points can be connected using an Ethernet cable or wirelessly across an ESS.

Bridge

The bridge acts as a connector between the WLAN and the LAN or access point.

Endpoint

An endpoint is an end-user station such as a computer, printer, mobile device, or Internet of Things (IoT) device that is used by users.

Wireless LAN Standards and Modes

IEEE 802.11 is the standard protocol for wireless local area networks that make it possible to connect securely to high-speed wireless networks while still having mobile access to network infrastructure. Before the advent of this technology, we needed to be connected with cables to the LAN to enjoy the benefits of a fast connection speed while using a network.

Several WLAN standards and modes have been designed throughout time by multiple organizations in the business world. The following diagram illustrates many of the most popular WLAN modes and standards.

802.11 was first developed in 1997, and after that various updates are developed as per the requirements.

How does Wireless LAN benefit a business?

Wireless LAN can benefit a business and assist in redefining enterprise goals across different sectors. Let’s look into some of the benefits that it can offer.

• Increased Mobility and Productivity: Wireless LAN allows employees to work from anywhere, anytime, and communicate with other employees easily. It is easy for them to respond to various day-to-day tasks with ease such as responding to emails, accessing files, or even making video calls. This will surely increase their productivity and efficiency.
• Enhanced Collaboration and Innovation: With the help of WLAN, various departments as well as teams can share ideas and resources. R&D and innovation-focused industries are the best examples where WLAN is crucial. It allows both the researchers and developers to access as well as share data quickly.
• Enhanced Data Analytics and Insights: Wireless LAN allows businesses to collect as well as analyze data on customer behavior, traffic patterns, and usage trends. This data will further assist in optimizing operations, improving customer experiences, and informing business decisions.
• Reinventing Healthcare and Education: With WLAN medical professionals can easily access patient records, medical images, and other critical information. This will assist in improving overall patient care. If we talk about education, WLAN gives the opportunity to students with reliable access to digital resources. This will allow students to learn and improve their academic achievements.
• Reimagining Security and Surveillance: WLAN-based security systems enable businesses to monitor and respond to security threats in real-time, improving incident response and reducing risks.

Is Wireless LAN Secure?

A WLAN can be secure only if it is set up and managed correctly, but it is not inherently secure. It is similar to the front door of the home. It is only secure if it is locked and maintained regularly.

When we compare Wireless LAN to physical networks, then it is less secure. In the case of a wired network, attackers have to physically access it else it is impossible to breach it. Now, there are many reasons why a WLAN might not be secure. Some of these are –

• Using outdated security protocols
• Weak passwords
• Not updating your router
• Public Wi-Fi without a VPN

In order to improve WLAN security, one has to take strong measures such as using strong passwords and encryption (WPA3 or WPA2 at a minimum), keeping your router’s firmware up to date, and considering using a VPN on public Wi-Fi.

How to create a WLAN?

Below, we have discussed a step-by-step guide to creating a WLAN. First of all, let us look into the components that one should need for setting up the WLAN. These are:

• Wireless Router
• Modem
• Computer or laptop with Wi-Fi capabilities
• An internet connection (from an Internet Service Provider like AT&T, Comcast, etc.)

Step I: Connect the modem to the internet

In order to connect the modem to the Internet, one will need a cable provided by ISP.

Step 2: Connect the router to the modem

Connect the router to the modem with the help of an Ethernet cable.

Step 3: Configure the router

• Open a web browser and type the router’s IP address in the browser’s address bar (most of the time it is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1). One can also find this address in the router’s manual.
• Log in to the router with the default admin username and password (It is printed on the bottom or back of the router)
• To secure your router it is highly suggested to change the admin username and password.
• Set up the WLAN settings
  • Create a network name (SSID) for your WLAN (e.g., “Home-Network”).
  • Set a password (WEP/WPA/WPA2) for your WLAN (e.g., “acxaodm”).
  • Set the wireless channel to “Auto” or a specific channel (e.g., Channel 6).

Step 4: Connect devices to the WLAN

Now, in the final step, connect the devices to the Wireless LAN.

Characteristics of Wireless LAN

Below, we have discussed some of the characteristics of WLAN –

• Easy Installation: WLAN is relatively easy to set up and install. The reason behind it is it doesn’t need any drilling or running cables through walls.
• High Speed: If we talk about modern WLANs, they can support high-speed data transfer rates. These characteristics make them suitable for an application that requires fast data transfer.
• Quality of Service (QoS): With the help of WLAN, one can prioritize certain types of traffic in order to ensure a good user experience.
• Scalability: WLANs are best suited for large organizations or public networks as they can easily support a large number of devices at once.

Applications of Wireless LAN

Wireless LAN has numerous applications in various areas of life. At home, it enables multiple devices to connect to the internet without cables, providing flexibility and convenience. In businesses and offices, WLAN increases productivity and collaboration. Public hotspots, such as those in airports and coffee shops, offer internet access to visitors.

Apart from all this, WLAN is used in education, healthcare, industrial automation smart cities, gaming, and video streaming. WLAN is an essential technology in today’s interconnected world.

Advantages of Wireless LAN in Computer Networks

• Mobility: It allow users to access network resources and services from anywhere within the coverage area without being restricted by cables or wires. This increases productivity and flexibility for users working from different locations or moving around while staying connected.
• Scalability: WLANs can easily accommodate changes in the network’s number of devices or users by adding or removing access points as needed. It can also support different types of devices and applications, such as voice, video, and data.
• Cost: It can reduce the cost of network installation and maintenance costs by eliminating the need for wiring and cabling. WLANs can also save energy and space by using less power and equipment than wired networks.
• Security: Using encryption, authentication, and firewall technologies, it can provide secure network access to authorized users. Using frequency hopping and spread spectrum techniques, WLANs can also protect the network from interference and eavesdropping.

Disadvantages of Wireless LAN

• Limited range: WLAN signals have a limited coverage area compared to wired networks.
• Interference and congestion: Wireless networks can experience interference and congestion from other devices and neighboring networks.
• Security concerns: These are more susceptible to unauthorized access and data breaches without proper security measures.
• Signal degradation: Its signals can be affected by distance, physical obstructions, and electromagnetic interference, leading to reduced performance.
• Reliability and performance issues: WLANs may experience dropped connections, latency, and slower data transfer speeds.
• Cost and complexity: Setting up and maintaining a WLAN can be more expensive and complex compared to wired networks.

Wireless LAN vs Wired LAN

Speed Comparison:

Wired LAN offers higher speeds and more consistent performance, whereas WLAN provides the benefit of mobility with sufficient speed for most applications.

Security:

Wired networks are generally more secure than wireless connections because they are less vulnerable to interference and external attacks. However, with strong encryption protocols, we can make wireless LANs as secure as wired LANs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is a wireless LAN used for?

WLANs can be used for different purposes, this includes connecting computers, smartphones, tablets, printers, and other devices in homes, offices, schools, and public places.

Q2. Is wireless LAN same as Wi-Fi?

Although the terms WLAN and Wi-Fi are often utilized interchangeably, it is important to note that these two wireless technologies have some differences. Wireless Local Area Network (LAN) employs radio frequency technology to establish connections between nodes. Wi-Fi, on the other hand, is a specific type of WLAN.

Q3. What are the types of wireless LAN?

There are different types of WLANs based on their architecture, frequency band, and standard. Some common types of WLANs are Infrastructure mode and Ad-hoc mode.

Q4. What is an example of wireless LANs?

One of the most common examples of wireless LANs is the home network. With it, a user can use the internet for various purposes, such as sharing files or printing documents.

Conclusion

Wireless LANs (WLANs) are networks that use radio waves to connect devices without cables. WLANs allow users to move around within a limited area, such as a home, office, or campus, and stay connected to the network. In this blog, we have discussed the fundamentals of wireless LANs, their working, benefits, disadvantages, and different standards. We hope you like the information.