2007 9.content.07653
2007 9.content.07653
2007 9.content.07653
Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003
with SP2
Benefits
Some of the specific benefits of implementing a WLAN are included in the following:
To connect the networks in two buildings separated by a physical, legal, or financial obstacle, you can either
use a link provided by a telecommunications vendor for a fixed installation cost and ongoing recurring
costs or you can create a pointtopoint wireless link using wireless LAN technology for a fixed installation
cost, but no recurring costs. Eliminating recurring telecommunications charges can provide significant cost
savings.
Wireless LAN technologies can be used to create a temporary network, which is in place for only a specific
amount of time. For example, the network needed at a convention or trade show can be a wireless network,
rather than deploying the physical cabling required for a traditional Ethernet network.
Some types of buildings, such as historical buildings, might be governed by building codes that prohibit the
use of wiring, making wireless networking an important alternative.
The wiringfree aspect of wireless LAN networking is also very attractive to homeowners who want to
connect the various computers in their home together without having to drill holes and pull network cables
through walls and ceilings.
The mobile user whose primary computer is a portable computer can change location and always remain
connected to the network. This enables the mobile user to travel to various places meeting rooms,
hallways, lobbies, cafeterias, classrooms, and so forth yet retain access to networked data. Without
wireless access, the user has to carry cabling and is restricted to working near a network jack.
Wireless LAN networking is a perfect technology for environments where movement is required. For
example, retail environments can benefit when employees use a wireless portable computer or handheld
device to enter inventory information directly into the store database from the sales floor.
Even if no wireless infrastructure is present, wireless portable computers can still form their own ad hoc
networks to communicate and share data with each other.
Note
In all these wireless LAN scenarios, it is worth noting that todays standardsbased wireless LANs operate at
the same speeds that were considered state of the art for wired networks just a few years ago. For example,
IEEE802.11b, a prevalent wireless LAN technology, operates at a maximum of 11megabits per second
Mbps, or about 30 to 100 times faster than standard dialup technologies. This data transfer rate is
adequate for running a number of applications or services. In addition, ongoing advancements of wireless
standards continue to increase the data transfer rate, with speeds of up to 54Mbps for IEEE802.11g.
Remote Authentication DialIn User Service RADIUS support, to provide centralized connection
authentication, authorization, and accounting.
A certificate infrastructure, also known as a public key infrastructure PKI, to issue and validate the
certificates required for Extensible Authentication ProtocolTransport Layer Security EAPTLS and Protected
EAP PEAPTLS authentication. TLS can use either computer certificates for authenticating the wireless client
computer or smart cards or registrybased user certificates for authenticating the user of a wireless client
computer.
Associated Technologies
The associated technologies of a secure WLAN include the following:
WPA, as agreed upon by wireless vendors, is an interoperable interim standard until the IEEE802.11i
standard is being ratified. WPA requires secure wireless networking, addresses the issues with WEP through
a software upgrade, provides a secure wireless networking solution for small office/home office SOHO
wireless users, and provides compatibility with the upcoming IEEE802.11i standard.
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol DHCP services, to provide automatic Internet Protocol IP
configuration to wireless clients.
Domain Name System DNS and Windows Internet Name Service WINS services, to provide name
resolution.
Note
For information about IEEE802.11b wireless networks for the home and small business, see the Microsoft
WiFi Web page.
Community Additions
ok220968
wifi
orchideaberlin
10/8/2015
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