Wireless Network Implementation
Wireless business networks allow multiple computers to share files, software applications, printers, and a single, high speed Internet connection. Several versions of wireless systems have developed since 1998, each still useful, depending on the nature of the business and its practical requirements. Home computer users embraced wireless technology from its inception, but business users have only recently begun incorporating wireless networking recently, owing to system and information security concerns.(O'Reilly)
Whereas traditional (cabled) configurations transfer data at a rate of 100mb/sec, wireless capability generally ranges (realistically) between 5-6mb/sec and 54mb/sec. The very latest incarnation of cabled networks ("gigabyte networking") offers a 1000mb/sec rating compared to about 108mb/sec rating of the corresponding wireless "triband" systems just introduced to market within the last few months.(Briere)
Initial site surveys of this facility suggest that careful consideration is in order with respect to a tradeoff between signal strength and frequency owing to the physical layout of this facility and the type(s) of primary uses anticipated. A comprehensive review necessarily includes one version of a wired network as well, in the absence of a satisfactory balance between the relative capabilities and limitations of wireless options currently available.
In addition to system capabilities, a feasibility analysis requires a consideration of network security issues and ancillary equipment or software expenses to mitigate some of the vulnerabilities inherent to wireless communications as compared to traditional wired configurations.(O'Reilly)
Wireless Networking Options:
Standard wireless networking system were originally designated "802.11" by the nonprofit IEEE and certified by the nonprofit Wi-Fi Alliance.(Steers) Since then, three distinct
802.11 systems evolved, designated 802.11b, 802.11a, and 802.11g, in chronological order.
All 802.11 wireless systems share common principles, but they differ in specific suitability by virtue of capability, security, cost and compatibility issues particular to each. Generally,
802.11b and 802.11g systems are most suitable for business users, primarily because 802.11a systems are incompatible with evolving technology. In some cases, otherwise obsolete
802.11a systems still represent the best choice, whereas in other cases, a non-wireless
alternative relying on the electrical wiring infrastructure of the facility is better suited to business requirements than any wireless 802.11 system currently available.
1. 802.11(b)
Prior to 2003, 802.11b technology represented the only real wireless option since its introduction to market approximately four years earlier. Transmitting along a microwave frequency of 2.4 Mhz, it is rated at a data transfer rate of 11mb/sec, but realistically, 5 or
6 mb/sec is a more accurate estimate. Similarly, hardware specifications list a 150-foot indoor range and a 300-foot maximum outdoor range between base station and network terminals, but background radio signal interference, wall layout and building materials are factors contributing to a more realistic working range of about half that distance.(Steers)
Therefore, a site survey is crucial before selecting an 802.11b system, both to determine suitability, as well as to ensure optimal placement of the access point, since degradation of signal strength corresponds to dramatically decreased data transfer rates.(Steers)
802.11b hardware includes a wireless "router" or base station which connects directly to the high-speed modem, DSL, or cable modem. Each network desktop computer requires a USB port adapter, while networked laptops require a wireless PCMCIA card. 802.11b
routers are available at an approximate cost of $100, and USB adapters or PCMCIA cards priced about half that, per unit. Users report that laptops featuring built-in, fully integrated
PCI cards offer slightly better range than after-market addition of PCMCIA wireless cards, for about the same added cost.(Steers) In late 2003, Intel introduced the Centrino microprocessor chip, which is specifically designed for full integration within the laptop power system to extend battery life significantly.
Prior to 2003, wireless network users requiring data transfer rates exceeding the maximum capabilities of 802.11b technology for sharing large files or complex applications
(such as graphic design firms), and those requiring extensive printing among multiple terminals (such as accounting firms), were relegated to wired networking systems. Early 2003
saw the introduction of 5.4 Mhz 802.11a technology, which offers extended signal range and correspondingly faster data transmission capabilities.
A device called a "repeater" came out a few months later, enabling 802.11b users to boost their 2.4 Mhz signal, as an alternative to the newer and more expensive 802.11a
hardware in appropriate physical environments and under certain technical requirements that would otherwise absolutely require either wired networking or costly upgrades to 802.11a
equipment, which is incompatible with 802.11b software and equipment.
2. 802.11(a)
In 2003, 802.11a systems opened up wireless networking to business operations whose requirements exceeded the capabilities of the prior state of the art. Implementation concerns are similar to 802.11b systems,...
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