Components
Laptops and workstations

The most common devices used on WLANs are workstations, which include both laptop and desktop models. Photos of laptop and desktop computers appear in Figures and . Many corporations are supplying their workforce with laptops, instead of desktop models. While in the office, the laptop is typically connected to a docking station with a large display monitor, full size keyboard, and a mouse, for improved ergonomic use. The laptop is easily transported for business or personal use, at home or on the road. This has eliminated the need for two systems for each employee and the need to constantly transfer files between two PCs. Laptops and docking stations eliminate concerns about leaving a needed file on the desktop, while away from the office. Furthermore, corporations are able to cut down on expenditures associated with purchasing and maintaining two devices for each employee.

Laptop computers and notebook computers are becoming increasingly popular, as are palm top computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and other small computing devices. The main difference between desktops and laptops is that components in a laptop are smaller. Instead of expansion slots, there are PCMCIA slots, where NICs, wireless NICs, modems, hard drives and other useful devices, can be inserted. The card is usually the size of a thick credit card. It is inserted into a PCMCIA slot along the perimeter. The use of wireless NICs eliminates the need for cumbersome adapters, connectors, and cables.

A result of user mobility is an increase in productivity. For example, meetings and conferences have become less challenging. Access to resources was typically limited or required valuable time to prepare, such as copying all needed files to the laptop before the meeting. With WLAN-enabled laptops, users can simply pick up and go, with all of their resources available. Furthermore, users are connected to corporate resources while in the meeting, which means that instant messaging, email, printing, file, and Internet access are all easily accessible.

If desktops are currently in use, they can easily be converted from wired to wireless systems, by changing the NIC and deploying access points. Wireless NICs are also available as PCI adapters. This may seem a step backward, if 10/100 Ethernet is already installed. However, when the next office reorganization takes place, costly rewiring will not be required. As long as applications do not require bandwidth greater than 54 Mbps, WLANs are a viable option.

One great advantage of using the 802.11 standard is that many laptops are now shipped with compatible wireless NICs pre-installed. Without any modification, these devices can interoperate with any Aironet product as well as with other IEEE compliant devices. The IEEE 802.11b standard is covered in detail in Module 2.

Product testing in different hardware and software configurations now includes WLAN devices, such as NICs, software clients, and access points (APs). It is important that this phase be completed to ensure that the network meets business requirements Even with the great advantages of WLANs, they may not be viable in some situations.