What is a WLAN? A Guide About Wireless Local Area Network

Published on: August 27, 2021

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Gone are the days when a wired connection was essential to connect to the internet. These days, WLANs are all around us.

From homes, offices, cafes, and even a lot of public places, WLANs are present to ensure that our connectivity to the internet is never lost.

WLANs help us connect to the internet even when we are on the move. A major reason why smart devices were able to gain popularity was that it freed people from their stationary postures and allowed them to move and work at the same time.

This guide will tell you all you need to know about Wireless Local Area Networks.

What is WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)?

Wireless Local Area Network or WLAN is a wireless network that allows two or more devices to be wirelessly connected to form a local area network on a limited scale. WLAN relies on high-frequency radio waves rather than wired connections and often includes an Internet access point. WLANs enable individuals to work and travel around the network's coverage area, such as a school, house, campus, or office building. Through a gateway, a WLAN may establish an Internet connection. Wifi is perhaps the most well-known WLAN brand that employs IEEE 802.11 specifications.

WLAN and wifi have changed a lot of things and brought in a sort of new internet age. Not only are people connected to each other online, but they are able to do so in a more convenient fashion. For people who have not experienced wired internet, they will have an extremely hard time adjusting to it. And even people who have worked in a stationary position will have an unbelievable time going back to an environment where there are no wireless internet connections.

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Devices

A WLAN may range in size from a minimum of two devices to a maximum of one hundred or more. Nevertheless, the management of wireless networks becomes more challenging with the growing number of devices.

Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) may accommodate a wide range of devices, such as:

• Portable computing devices such as laptops and tablets
• Mobile phones
• Video game consoles
• IoT devices
• Internet audio platforms

What is The History of WLANs?

WLANs have come a long way since its inception back in the early 70s. Professor Norman Abramson at the University of Hawaii is credited with developing the world’s first wireless computer communication network called the ALOHAnet.

Like any other technology, WLAN was incredibly costly. Over time and by the late 90s, different versions of the IEEE 802.11 were set as the technical standards.

Previous attempts at commercializing WLAN like the HiperLAN/1 and HiperLAN/2 were not commercially successful. But by 2009, 802.11n was added to the 802.11.

WLANs are not able to operate at both 2.4 and 5 GHz bands. A higher rate of data transfer and reliability, along with smart devices really made the technology a success.

What is WLAN Used For?

WLANs are used in a variety of scenarios.

The most common being home and workplace usage. Instead of lining your entire space with wires and still having to connect to cable, WLANs can help you connect and roam on site.

WLANs are also used as a means to attract audiences at restaurants or other establishments where people are likely to spend a meaningful amount of time.

Connectivity on the go is taken for granted, but it’s importance is specially highlighted when you have urgent work to attend to, but don’t have a WLAN to connect to.

How Does Wireless Local Area Network Work?

WLANs provide Internet access using radio, infrared, and microwave transmission to transmit data from one location to another without requiring cables or other connections to directly connect to your computer. The components of a wireless LAN are nodes and access points. A node is a computer or peripheral device (such as a printer) with a network adapter and, in the case of WLANs, an antenna. Access points serve as transmitters and receivers between nodes or between nodes and another network. WLAN data transmission is implemented by one of the technologies listed below:

• Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS): Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) employs a narrowband carrier whose frequency changes in a pattern that is known to both the transmitter and the receiver. Synchronized correctly, the result is the maintenance of a single logical channel. FHSS appears to an unintended receiver as short-duration impulse noise.

• Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum: Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) produces a redundant bit pattern for each transmitted bit. This pattern of bits is known as a chip (or chipping code). The lengthier the chip, the more likely it is that the original data can be recovered (and the greater the bandwidth requirement). Even if one or more bits on the device are corrupted during transmission, statistical techniques can recover the original data without retransmission. Most narrowband receivers disregard DSSS because it appears as low-power wideband noise to inadvertent receivers.

• Infrared Technology: For data transmission, infrared (IR) systems employ frequencies just below visible light on the electromagnetic spectrum. Like visible light, infrared cannot pass through opaque objects; it is either directed (line-of-sight) or diffuse. Infrequently used in specific WLAN applications, low-cost directed systems have a range of only 3 feet and are inexpensive. High-performance directed IR is impracticable for mobile users, so it is only used to implement fixed subnetworks. Diffuse (or reflective) IR WLAN systems do not require a direct line of sight, but cells are restricted to individual rooms.

What are the Benefits of a WLAN?

WLAN has a number of advantages and benefits that it brings to internet users. Some advantages of WLAN are listed below:

• Internet connectivity while on the move: The major benefit of a WLAN is that it allows people to be connected even if they are moving. The ability to use the internet for work and play while on the move has changed a lot of things for the better.

• Cost effective: Another advantage of using WLAN is that it is cost effective. Installing cables quickly becomes extremely expensive when you have to cater to a large number of users and factor in the maintenance cost.

• Less hassle for IT and maintenance staff: WLANs also make it easier for IT maintenance and support staff who don’t have to individually check for broken connections all the time. Not to mention that WLANs are easier to install and require less dealing with cables and wires during installation.

• Flexibility for organizations: WLANs also help organizations adjust their number of users or devices that need to be connected to the internet.

• Useful in disasters and when physical infrastructure is damaged: WLANs can also prove incredibly useful when there is a natural disaster as it reduces the need for physical infrastructure to provide internet connectivity, granted that the range will be limited.

Figure 1. What are the Benefits of a WLAN?

What are The Types of Wireless Networks?

Wireless local area networks, wireless metropolitan area networks, wireless personal area networks, and wireless wide area networks are the four distinct varieties of wireless networks, each serving a distinct purpose.

The different types of wireless networks and the corresponding equipment and connections are described in the following section.

1. Wireless WAN: Wireless WANs provide access beyond the range of a wireless LAN or metropolitan network via cellular technology. These networks facilitate telephonic communication between users. Transmitting either data or speech is possible over WANs utilizing the identical technology. Internet connectivity also grants users access to server-based applications and websites.

   Cell towers are ubiquitous throughout the United States and the majority of other nations. The user's connection is directed to the cell tower in closest proximity, which is subsequently linked to either the wired internet or another tower that is also connected to the wired internet.

2. Wireless MAN: Globally, wireless metropolitan area networks (MANs) have been deployed in urban areas to grant access to individuals who are not connected to a home or office network. Although these networks have a greater coverage area than those found in offices or homes, the underlying principles remain consistent. APs are deployed across the blanketed area, either on telephone poles or the exterior of structures. A wired network connects APs to the internet, from which they transmit a wireless signal to cover the entire area. By establishing a connection with the nearest AP, users are able to establish a connection to their intended destination via that AP's internet connection.

3. Wireless LAN: Wireless LAN (WLAN) technology enables access to the internet exclusively within a structure or a restricted external space. WLAN technology has expanded from its initial applications in residences and offices to include establishments such as stores and restaurants. As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic mandating that office workers, students, instructors, and others study and work remotely, the utilization of home networks increased significantly.

   The majority of residential network architectures are straightforward. The cable or fiber from a local service provider is connected to the modem. By connecting to the modem, a wireless router is able to receive the signal transmitted by the modem. Subsequently, the router functions as the wireless access point (AP), employing a wireless protocol, such as the 802.11 standards, to transmit data.

   Networks in offices are more intricate. APs are typically ceiling-mounted devices that transmit a wireless signal throughout the vicinity. In large offices, multiple APs are necessary, with each AP connecting to the office backbone network through a wired connection to a switch. APs coordinate support for users traversing the office area and transfer support from one AP to another in order to sustain open, connected sessions.

4. Wireless PAN: Implemented via protocols such as Bluetooth and Zigbee, wireless personal area networks typically cover a 100-meter radius for the majority of their applications. Bluetooth facilitates hands-free phone conversations, establishes connections between smart devices, and transmits signals between earpieces. Stations are linked via Zigbee within an IoT network. Line-of-sight is the only limitation of infrared technology, such as when connecting TV remotes to televisions.

   Wireless technology has been perpetually enhanced through the exploration of novel signal transmission methods for users. These technological advancements facilitate the expansion of range and higher data rates for every one of these wireless technologies.

What are The Types of WLAN?

WLAN or more specifically the IEEE 802.11 is differentiated in terms of its operating modes. Types of WLAN are as follows:

• Infrastructure: Infrastructure is the most common type of WLAN. This type of WLAN that uses the infrastructure mode relies on the wireless devices to connect to the WAP (wireless access point) if they want to access the network. Meaning that laptops, computers and other devices need to be within range of the WLAN and enter the correct credentials to be authorized to join the WLAN.

  Generally, wireless access points are fixed and have a certain range that they are able to cover. A network can potentially have multiple wireless access points and the client software will be responsible for choosing the best WAP to connect to in this potential circumstance.

• Ad hoc: Ad hoc networks do not rely on a WAP, instead they are networks where stations only communicate peer to peer. The peer to peer network grants access to wireless devices that they can connect with each other. Data and information can then be shared between the devices that are connected to each other on the WLAN.

  Signal strength is not a good metric to judge the WLAN, as the system will register the strength of the nearest peer.

• Bridge: Bridges are used to connect networks to each other. Wireless ethernet bridges allow the devices connected on a wired ethernet to be connected to a wireless network.

• Wireless distribution system: WDS or wireless distribution systems allows the wireless interconnection of access points in an IEEE 802.11 network. Wireless distribution systems allow the network to be expanded using multiple access points without relying on wired infrastructure to support them.

  The biggest advantage of using WDS is that MAC addresses of data packets are preserved between different access points.

What are the Prices for Local Area Network Equipment?

There is great variance in the prices for local area network equipment.

The factors that dictate price include the scale at which the LAN must act as intended, the choice between traditional WLAN or hierarchical WLAN, future planning etc.

Site surveys are going to be significant for traditional WLAN. An estimate for a space that can cater to around 1500 personnel and area of around 650,000 square feet is around $170,000.

Infrastructure cost for the traditional WLAN would be a little over $330,000, while the cost for WLAN would be around $220,000 for the same area and user specifications.

To manage a traditional WLAN, ther personnel you will need to hire need to be qualified and highly paid at the same time. You can expect the salary of one such individual to be around $100,000 per year and as a recurring cost.

While hierarchical WLANs are easily manageable and require less oversight, you can expect to pay around $50,000 in salaries for this WLAN.

The cost to set up a local area network and the equipment involved greatly vary depending on the scale and size of the installation, operations and maintenance of the network.

To get the best price, a good idea might be to survey the market and find out prices for a WLAN similar to your needs. If you’re planning to outsource the installation and maintenance then it is best to go with seasoned professionals as a poorly set up WLAN can become the source of a cyber attack and cause harm to your business.

What is the difference between a WLAN and a WAN?

WAN stands for wide area network.

WAN and WLAN are used in two entirely different scenarios. WAN is used when the need for connectivity is greater than a hundred kilometers and can often be around a thousand kilometers. WLAN may or may not require physical infrastructure.

Wireless WAN utilizes satellites to establish the network and maintain connectivity. While the wired WAN uses optical fiber cables.

Compared to a WAN, the number of people who can connect to a WLAN is incredibly small.

WAN is mainly used when the geographical distance is quite significant, sometimes even cross continental.

What is the difference between a WLAN and a MAN?

MAN stands for metropolitan area network.

There are two key differences between MAN and WLAN. The first being that MAN has a much greater range than a LAN or WLAN. The second difference is that MAN requires the use of physical infrastructure like fiber optics to make and connect areas to a network.

MAN is used when there is a need to connect one city to another. It’s range is far greater than a LAN that is typically restricted to a single building. MAN is used when the distance is around 50kms or more.

What is the difference between a WLAN and LAN ?

LAN stands for local area network.

The main difference between WLAN and LAN is that LAN relies on a physical connection, mainly in the form of ethernet cables. In the past coaxial cables were used, but have since been replaced by newer and better ethernet cables.

To use a LAN, users would need to connect an ethernet cable to their computers or other devices if they want to connect to the network. Whereas, this is not the case with WLAN and users can wirelessly connect with the network.

What is the Difference Between WLAN and WIFI?

Despite their interchangeable usage, WLAN and Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) are distinct wireless technologies. WLANs provide network communication utilizing radio waves, such as lasers and infrared signals, as opposed to physical connections. They allow wireless network connection utilizing high-frequency radio waves (such as those on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands) and adhere to IEEE 802.11 specifications. WLAN in our everyday lives refers to IEEE 802.11-compliant implementations. During the expansion and development of WLAN, other technological standards, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HyperLAN2, have arisen. Wi-Fi is now the most popular owing to its easy installation, dependable connectivity, great adaptability, and inexpensive implementation costs. WLAN gradually becoming synonymous with Wi-Fi.

WiFi is a brand of wireless network communication technology based on the IEEE 802.11 set of specifications. The objective of WiFi is to increase compatibility across IEEE 802.11-based wireless network solutions.

WIFI is a wireless networking technique. In the past, computers were linked through the network, however now they are linked by radio waves. In 1999, the Wi-Fi Alliance, the organization for the standardization of wireless local area networks, was founded. The name was Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA) at the time. It was formally called the Wi-Fi Alliance in October 2002.

The main distinction between WIFI and WLAN is that WIFI is included in WLAN. WLAN is a network system, while Wi-Fi is a component of this network system. WLAN thus includes Wi-Fi. Secondly, WIFI differs from WLAN in terms of the transmitted signal strength and coverage.

Despite Wi-Fi's widespread use, network teams may discover that it is not always the optimal solution when implementing a WLAN. Wi-Fi remains the prevailing norm for user access serving general purposes. However, in regard to the proliferation of autonomous devices and the Internet of Things, teams are likely to select superior WLAN options.

Wi-Fi is essentially the only WLAN that provides direct service to human users; however, in-building cellular may also qualify. Presumably, the majority of other WLANs support autonomous client device nodes.

Similar to how two Wi-Fi networks coexisting in the same area can negatively impact one another's performance, any WLAN that uses the same frequencies can do the same. Any WLAN must be appropriately designed and must coexist with other WLANs in the same area.

Typically, with the correct password, anyone can establish a connection to a WiFi network. But certain WLAN networks implement more stringent security measures, necessitating individual access credentials for each user. As a result, they enjoy widespread use among enterprises.

WLAN and WiFi have distinct ranges. The wireless signal range covered by WIFI and WLAN is distinct from one another. WiFi's range is around 300 feet (about 90 meters), while the maximum WLAN (with antenna) reaches 5 kilometers.

WIFI (Wireless Fidelity), commonly known as the 802.11b standard, is distinguished by its fast transmission speed, which exceed 11 Mbps, as well as its extremely long effective range and compatibility with numerous current 802.11DSSS devices.

Lastly, Inside a WLAN, devices nearly invariably use WI-FI brand products, but this is not the case for wifi.

	WLAN	Wifi
Term	A wireless network is one that utilizes wireless technology to link several devices to form a local network.	Wi-Fi is an IEEE 802.11-compliant wireless networking technology.
Range	up to 5 km.	2.4 GHz 100 meters (300 feet) 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz and 6 GHz supported
Devices	Devices inside a WLAN technology uses WI-FI branded products	Devices in a Wifi does not use Wlan branded products
Another name	Wireless LAN	WiFi, wifi, or wi-fi

Table 1. WLAN vs Wifi

How to Setup a Wireless Local Area Network?

To set up a wireless local area network you will need some equipment. This includes a wireless router, an internet connection usually through an ethernet cable, and a power source.

You will first need to connect your wireless router to the internet source and then to a power outlet. You can then move on to name the network as it is a good security practice, but even if you don’t the network will have a default name.

Then you will need to use the documentation that comes with the wireless router and enable WEP security. Set recommended security features according to your router’s documentation.

You can opt to use access points if you don’t intend to use a wireless router. Access points should be placed in a central location if possible.

What are the Examples of WLAN?

There are numerous circumstances and examples in which WLAN is utilized. A residential or workplace Wi-Fi network is an example of a WLAN set up. All the endpoints are interconnected and interact with each other via a central base station, which may also provide internet connectivity. WLAN is predominantly illustrated through Wi-Fi device connectivity in residential, occupational, academic, and university settings, as well as through smartphones that distribute Wi-Fi nodes to various devices, such as terminals, laptops, and others. Examples of standard WLANs are provided below:

• Need to connect devices wirelessly: Wireless connectivity has become a necessity. Not only do staff need internet connectivity for their laptops or computer systems, they also need internet for their smartphones, and other personal devices.

• Need to provide connectivity to a varying number of devices: WLAN works great when the number of devices can vary. People can come and go along with their devices and connect to the WLAN only when they need to.

• Network needs to be limited to a small area: Different departments within a location can have their own WLAN for their teams and workforce.

What are General Wireless Local Area Network Problems and Solutions?

WLAN isn’t the perfect solution for all use cases. There are pros and cons to every network solution. We will now be discussing some of the problems that you might face using WLAN along with their solutions:

• Reduced performance: There can be a number of reasons that you might experience a loss in internet speed or connectivity when using a WLAN. One reason might be that there are simply too many people using the WLAN and that there are no accommodation plans for this many users.

• Installation errors: Often caused when access points are placed incorrectly or antenna controllers are used incorrectly, among other issues. It’s best to have a professional come and evaluate your setup if you’re stumped and don’t know what to do moving forward.

• Coverage issues: Coverage issues happen when the access points for your WLAN are not placed correctly. There might be multiple access points for a relatively small space and they will interfere with each other, or you might not have an access point covering the space in the first place. Examining the range of your access points as well as the distance between each of them is the best way to ensure smooth coverage.

• Software issues in WLAN controllers: Depending on the client’s needs you might need to update to the latest version of the software and discuss how you will carry out software maintenance with the device’s vendors.

• External interference: External interference from neighboring wireless networks, wireless devices including video cameras, motion detectors, etc. can interfere with your WLAN’s performance. It is best to conduct an audit of all devices in the vicinity and near it if you want to avoid these issues from the get go.

• Security: Network security is going to be an issue that IT and network administrators will need to learn how to deal with. A common problem can be unauthorized access to the network. While this might not be an issue if the person just wants to use the internet, it can become a problem if the network is exposed to a hacker.

  Maintaining security should first start by ensuring that the legitimate users of the WLAN are aware of their responsibilities. They should not share passwords and WLAN keys with unauthorized personnel. Network admins should also ensure that systems are up to date and traffic is monitored.

• Speed: Speed is an essential factor as a fast internet connection is necessary for workplace efficiency and productivity.

  Limiting the number of people who can connect to the WLAN is one way to improve connection speed as bandwidth will not be shared between too many users.

• Limited range: WLANs are designed to be used on a limited scale. But network requirements might change over time. Your WLAN might not be able to reach where it needs to.

  Solving this issue is simple as WLANs are scalable. Using a Wifi booster or range extender is a great way to increase WLAN range.

• Connectivity issues: Connectivity issues can happen for a number of reasons. An increased number of users or a difference in system version or some other reason might cause your WLAN users to face connectivity issues.

  Solving these issues is complex and you will need to investigate your physical infrastructure along with the particular individual devices and scenarios that are causing the connectivity issues.

What is the WLAN Port on my Router?

WLAN ports are devices that allow computers to connect to the WLAN. WLAN port is a kind of router. The main difference between the WLAN port and other routers is that the WLAN port has no wired ports. Connections to the WLAN need to be wireless.

A common confusion and fumble that non technical people make is that they confuse WAN ports with WLAN ports.

What is WLAN Security Setting?

WLAN security settings are used to prevent unauthorized access to your WLAN. In the case that your WLAN was left unprotected, WLAN along with other devices on the network would be vulnerable to harm.

WLAN security settings ensure that any user that wants to connect to the WLAN first has to give their credentials and the correct security key before they are permitted to connect to the network.

This authorized entry makes the network as a whole safer.

What is the WLAN Test?

WLAN tests are essential as they help you get a better idea of how well your system meets performance and security needs of your organization.

There are multiple factors that affect WLAN. Proper documentation of all these factors is vital to ensuring that the WLAN test has been conducted professionally.

Here are some of the factors that you should take note of in a WLAN test:

• Performance testing: Performance testing helps certify that the WLAN has the capability needed to handle specific applications used by its intended users.

• Signal coverage testing: Signal coverage testing measures the area at which the WLAN is accessible and it’s performance at that range.

• Vulnerability testing: This test checks the WLAN’s security measures against things like unauthorized access attempts and checking that security measures are up to standards.

• In-motion testing: In-motion testing helps check whether the WLAN can support the user's application usage when they are moving between different coverage areas.

• Acceptance testing: Acceptance testing is done to ensure that the organization acknowledges the tests conducted like signal coverage, performance, security, and capacity. It is a formalized process that relies on adequate documentation that states different stages of the WLAN installation, operations and maintenance.

• Simulation testing: This is a simulation conducted that assesses the WLAN’s behavior before it is actually deployed. It helps measure its effectiveness and performance prior to the actual installation.

• Prototype testing: Prototype testing is usually done in a lab setting. It is used to assess unfamiliar parts of a WLAN system.

• Pilot testing: Pilot testing is a sort of practice match before the main event. The WLAN is placed in a limited capacity but in a real world scenario to assess its performance and capabilities.

What is a WLAN Key?

To put it simply, think of the WLAN key as your Wifi password.

Each router or access point comes with a WLAN key that is already preset. You can change these whenever you want, but it will not be a good idea to give them the same key. In the case that one router is compromised, other access points and routers will also be at an extreme risk.

WLAN keys or passwords are important because they help secure your network. To gain access to your network, a user will need to enter the right key. If a wrong password is provided then the user will not be granted access to the network.

There are two different kinds of WLAN keys.

Wired Equivalent Privacy or WEP is the older of the two kinds of WLAN keys. Data using this key was encrypted with a 40-bit key between the router and computer. These are vulnerable to hackers and should not be used anymore.

Wifi Protected Access or WPA uses a temporary key that changes with every packet. WPA2 and WPA3 are the two main protocols that utilize the temporary keys. These are far more secure and are used for modern Wifi networks.

What is WLAN Direct?

WLAN Direct, also interchangeable with Wifi Direct, is a Wifi standard that is used for peer to peer communication. This means that two devices can establish a Wifi connection between themselves, eliminating the need for an intermediary access point, router, or internet connection.

WLAN Direct utilizes single hop communication. In this form of communication, a data packet would leave the source, pass through a single network to reach its destination. Since there are only two devices, this process makes absolute sense.

Wifi Direct is similar to bluetooth, in that it allows devices to transfer files and connect to each other. Wifi Direct can take place even if the devices are made by different manufacturers, granted that at least one device is compliant with Wifi Direct.

Most modern laptops, mobile phones, along with other smart devices can use WLAN Direct. Apple devices also use a proprietary feature called Multipeer Connectivity that is similar in its working and protocols to WLAN direct.

What is WLAN Access Point Router?

In larger offices and buildings, access point routers are used to make a wireless local area network.

The access point router is a device that is connected to a wired router, ethernet cable, or a switch, and creates a WLAN for a specified area.

A main use of an access point router would be to give WLAN to a part of your office or building that is just outside of the reach of a nearby router. By installing an access point router to the required area, and connecting it to an ethernet cable that connects to the server room, you can get internet connectivity in that space.

Access points also help you when you want to cater to a larger number of devices.

Other features that make using access points advantageous include access control list and captive portal support, along with a clustering feature in some routers that can help make routine IT tasks more efficient by only doing these tasks from a single point.

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