WLAN technology can either take the place of a traditional wired network or
extend its reach and capabilities. Much like the wired counterparts,
in-building WLAN equipment consists of client adapters and APs, which perform
functions similar to wired networking hubs.
For small or temporary
installations, a WLAN can be arranged in a peer-to-peer (also referred to as ad
hoc) topology using only client adapters. For added functionality and range,
APs can be incorporated to act as the center of a star topology, as shown in
Figure
. The AP can also
function as a bridge to an Ethernet network.
Adopting wireless
technology enables computing that is both mobile and connected within a
building. Users can move freely within a facility, while maintaining access to
the network.
Applying WLAN technology to desktop systems provides an
organization with flexibility that is impossible to attain with a traditional
LAN. Desktop client systems can be located in places where running cable is
impractical or impossible. Desktop PCs can be redeployed anywhere within a
facility as frequently as needed. This makes wireless ideal for temporary
workgroups and fast-growing organizations.
Building-to-Building
WLANs
In much the same way that a commercial radio signal can be picked
up in all types of weather, miles away from its transmitter, WLAN technology
applies the power of radio waves to truly redefine the local in LAN. With a
wireless bridge, networks located in buildings miles from each other can be
integrated into a single LAN
. When
bridging between buildings using traditional copper or fiber-optic cable,
freeways, lakes, and even local governments can be impassible obstacles. A
wireless bridge makes these less threatening. Transmitting data through the air
on no-license frequencies avoids the issues of both licensing and
rights-of-way.
Without a wireless alternative, organizations frequently
resort to wide area networking (WAN) technologies to link together separate
facilities. Contracting for leased-line or other wide-area services often
presents a variety of drawbacks:
- Installation is typically expensive and rarely immediate
- Monthly fees are often quite high for bandwidth
A wireless bridge can typically be purchased and installed in a day.
Once the investment is made there are no recurring charges. Modern wireless
bridges provide the bandwidth one would expect from a technology rooted in data
communication rather than voice communications.