Wireless Networks
Wireless networks are an alternative to traditional cable and fiber optic networks. They are important for enabling mobility for businesses. Examples of wireless networks include wireless local area networks (WLANs), cell phone networks, wireless sensor networks, terrestrial microwave networks, and satellite communication networks. Without these networks, the world would not have the communication accessibility we have today.
Despite the benefits of wireless networking, it also has some significant flaws and weaknesses. They are not always as reliable as we need them to be. They also have other issues that we need to contend with at times.
This article will help you learn more about wireless networks. It will help you to learn more about how they work and how they can benefit your business. You can also do more research to find the information you are seeking.
Wireless Networking
These networks use radio waves instead of cables to connect devices and your business network. Setting one of these up is fairly straightforward, especially when set up by a professional. The removal of wiring means that this is a quick and effective method of networking for your organization.
Businesses often use these for a single building and for connecting several businesses. This keeps them connected for building-to-building communication. In the past, this was usually done using a wired network.
Types of These
When you connect a group of devices, this is called a network. Different types of these technologies are designed for different scales, topologies, and uses. One way to tell the differences between these is by their geographic range.
Some different types are WPAN, WLAN, MANET, WWAN, and cellular. WPAN is used within the reach of an individual, while WLAN is used within a building or campus. See more here. MANET is used within 100m, and WWAN is used citywide.
These have been in all areas of society, including research and development, businesses, and personal lives. Some examples of this are cell or mobile phones, intercontinental systems, and emergency services. There are uses for this every day in every walk of life.
What Type of Solution Does Your Business Need?
Deciding on which solution is best for your business requires thinking about several things. You need to investigate several aspects and features that you might need. Most businesses and organizations use WLAN, specifically Wi-Fi. This allows them to operate wirelessly and to avoid the wires associated with outdated methods.
Main Components of a WLAN
Wi-Fi and Ethernet both have the same basic components that include a router, WAP, simple access points, adapters or NICs, bridge or repeaters, and controllers: https://www.lisedunetwork.com/components-of-a-wireless-local-area-network-wlan/#google_vignette. Using components such as the bridge or repeaters will help you extend your Wi-Fi.
Choosing a WLAN
When choosing a WLAN, it comes down to the following options:
- Local Solutions – Local solutions, including WPAN or Direct Wi-Fi, can be the right solution for short, individualized spaces. They won’t provide sufficient speed or capability that is required for an office.
- WLAN – WLAN, more specifically Wi-Fi, provides shared internet connections, intranet or extranet access, and can be used for connecting multiple non-cabled areas. These are a viable solution for offering access to visiting mobile staff.
- Mobile Phone or WWAN – These cover a larger geographical area than the above two solutions. This allows users to communicate with co-workers and access shared organizational resources remotely.
Implementing WLAN or Wi-Fi
You should consider cabled networks, where it might be appropriate whether you use WLAN or Wi-Fi. Any implementation should be planned carefully, taking into account some of the key elements. These key elements can include:
- Adaptations – Your fixed and Wi-Fi will need to have adaptations so they can work together. Monitoring these devices can be arduous because you need to see if you require specialized monitoring hardware or software to monitor your employees’ smartphones for accessing this network, for example.
- Check to See if There is Any Cultural Impact – Can everyone in your organization and the processes adapt to a new way of working? Are flexibility and mobility objectives for you? If so, can your business and work practices support people who are working away from the office?
- Capacity – Can your organization be capable of managing the increased volume of all the communication that will happen?
- Establish Training – Would users require any training? If so, what kind of training will they need?
Conclusion
These are only a few of the considerations that you should think about when learning about the wireless networks that you need in your organization. You need to learn about all aspects of this before you implement it for your business. If you learn everything, you can have a better system in your organization.
Many companies can help you understand more about wireless networks. One such company is Diamond Communications, which can help your business with its wireless needs. They can help with other things, as well.
