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WLAN (Wireless local area network)

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A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) is a type of network that allows devices to connect to the internet and communicate with each other wirelessly within a limited geographical area. WLANs are commonly used in homes, offices, airports, cafes, and other public places to provide convenient and flexible internet access without the need for physical cables.

Components of a WLAN:

  1. Access Point (AP): The access point is a central device in a WLAN that acts as a wireless hub. It is responsible for transmitting and receiving wireless signals to and from connected devices. The access point is usually connected to a wired network (e.g., a broadband modem or router) to provide internet connectivity to wireless devices.
  2. Wireless Network Interface Cards (NICs): Devices that connect to a WLAN must have a wireless network interface card, commonly integrated into laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other modern devices. This NIC allows the device to send and receive data over the wireless network.
  3. SSID (Service Set Identifier): The SSID is the name of the WLAN, which users select when connecting their devices. It serves as a unique identifier for the network.
  4. Security Protocols: To ensure the security of data transmitted over the WLAN, various security protocols like WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access II) or WPA3 are used to encrypt data and protect against unauthorized access.
  5. Wireless Channels: WLANs operate on specific radio frequencies within the unlicensed 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Multiple channels are available, and different access points can use different channels to minimize interference.

Working Principle:

WLANs use radio frequency (RF) communication to transmit data wirelessly between devices and the access point. When a device (such as a laptop or smartphone) wants to connect to a WLAN, it scans for available networks, selects the desired WLAN by choosing its SSID, and sends a connection request to the access point.

The access point receives the connection request, verifies the device's credentials (e.g., using a password or security key), and establishes a secure wireless connection. Once connected, the device can access the internet and communicate with other devices within the WLAN.

Types of WLANs:

  1. Infrastructure WLAN: In this type of WLAN, the wireless devices connect to a central access point. The access point acts as the hub of the network and is responsible for managing the wireless connections.
  2. Ad hoc WLAN: In an ad hoc WLAN, also known as a peer-to-peer network, wireless devices can connect directly to each other without the need for a central access point. Ad hoc WLANs are useful for temporary or small-scale connections but are less common in typical home or office setups.

Advantages of WLAN:

  1. Mobility: WLANs offer flexibility and mobility as users can access the network from anywhere within the coverage area of the access point.
  2. No Cables: WLANs eliminate the need for physical cables, reducing clutter and making it easier to connect multiple devices.
  3. Scalability: WLANs can be easily expanded by adding more access points to accommodate a growing number of connected devices or to extend coverage.
  4. Cost-effective: WLANs can be more cost-effective to deploy and maintain than wired networks, especially in locations where running cables is challenging.

Limitations of WLAN:

  1. Limited Range: WLANs have a limited coverage area compared to wired networks. The range of a WLAN can be affected by physical obstacles and interference.
  2. Security Concerns: WLANs are susceptible to security risks such as unauthorized access and data interception. Proper security measures, such as encryption and strong passwords, are essential to mitigate these risks.
  3. Interference: WLANs operating in the 2.4 GHz band may experience interference from other devices like microwaves and Bluetooth devices.

Conclusion:

A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) provides wireless connectivity to devices within a limited geographical area, typically using the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz radio frequency bands. WLANs offer flexibility, mobility, and cost-effectiveness, making them widely used in homes, offices, and public spaces. Proper security measures should be implemented to protect WLANs from unauthorized access and data breaches.