Wireless LANs is a wireless local area network that links two or more computers without the use of wire, in order to enable communication between the two devices. This is possible with the technology of radio waves and it provides the users with broadband connectivity within a broad range. The connectivity in terms of networking is done by the use of an adapter that connects to an access point, to enable a wireless network and since it does not need wiring and cabling, this is a cheaper alternative to expensive Ethernet set ups.

 

The network adapters may be built into the computer or the computer may be enabled to access wireless signals through the use of an add-on adapter that can be plugged into the USB ports or expansion slots. The range of frequency varies with different wireless network hardware and also the factor that since it is a common network, you have more number of computers sharing the Wireless LANs, thereby compromising on the speed and data transfer. The proximity of your computer to the access point increases the strength of the signals and the closer you get the faster the speed of connectivity gets.

 

The biggest advantage of using a wireless network is the convenience it allows for mobility as required by laptop users. These are easy to install and require less cost for installation, as compared to wired networks and can expand to accommodate more number of users.

 

There are greater chances of interferences with the WLAN as the radio waves get easily absorbed by materials like concrete, wood or glass and the waves may get absorbed or reflected. Devices like mobile phones, microwave ovens and cordless phones also can cause interference with the radio signals. Security is also often an issue as these radio signals can be easily intercepted and used from an outside source.

 

See Also:

Introduction to Network Cabling: Cables for Computer Networking

Shielded Twisted Pair Cables - Different Types of Cabling Used for Increased Bandwidth

Fibre Optic Cable - Simple Technology and Greater Bandwidth

Ethernet Cable Specifications for Maximizing Speed and Efficiency

Networking through Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cables

Coaxial Cables - Brief Characteristics and Features of Coaxial Cables for Networking