Wireless Network Architecture

Study Notes

Wireless Network Architecture

Basic Components

Access Points (APs): devices that allow wireless devices to connect to a wired network
Wireless Network Interface Cards (WNICs): devices installed in laptops, smartphones, and other devices to connect to a wireless network
Wireless Routers: devices that connect to a wired network and provide wireless access to multiple devices

Network Topology

Infrastructure Mode: wireless devices connect to an AP, which is connected to a wired network
- Advantages: easy to set up, provides centralized management
- Disadvantages: single point of failure, limited range
Ad-Hoc Mode: wireless devices connect directly to each other without an AP
- Advantages: no need for AP, flexible
- Disadvantages: limited range, no centralized management
Mesh Network: wireless devices connect to each other and to APs, providing multiple paths for data transmission
- Advantages: reliable, self-healing, flexible
- Disadvantages: complex setup, expensive

Network Architecture Models

WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) Architecture
- Consists of APs, WNICs, and wireless routers
- Provides wireless access to a local area network
WWAN (Wireless Wide Area Network) Architecture
- Consists of cellular networks, satellite networks, and wireless routers
- Provides wireless access to a wide area network
WMAN (Wireless Metropolitan Area Network) Architecture
- Consists of wireless routers, APs, and WNICs
- Provides wireless access to a metropolitan area network

Network Protocols

IEEE 802.11: a set of standards for wireless networking
- Includes protocols for MAC (Media Access Control) and PHY (Physical Layer)
MAC Protocols: manage data transmission and reception between devices
- Examples: CSMA/CA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance), RTS/CTS (Request to Send/Clear to Send)
PHY Protocols: manage data transmission and reception at the physical layer
- Examples: DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum), FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum)

Description

Learn about the basic components, network topology, architecture models, and protocols used in wireless networks. Understand the advantages and disadvantages of different network topologies and architectures.