WN01

Khatam-Al-Nabieen University
Computer Science Faculty
Wireless Network
[email protected]
+93 (0) 748743688
What’s Wireless Network?
❖ A wireless network is a type of computer network that allows devices to connect

and communicate with each other without the need for physical cables. Instead of
using wires, wireless networks transmit data using radio waves, microwaves, or
infrared signals., an Internet connection
Key Features of a Wireless Network:
❖ Mobility: Devices can connect to the network from various locations within the
network's range without being physically tethered to a specific spot.
❖ Flexibility: Wireless networks can be easily expanded or modified, as there is no
need to install additional cabling.
❖ Accessibility: Users can connect to the network using various wireless-enabled
devices, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, and IoT devices
WLAN & WPAN
❖ A WLAN allows devices to connect within a limited area, such as a home, office, or
campus, typically using a wireless router or access point.
❖ Example: WIFI
❖ WPANs cover a very short range, typically a few meters, and are used for
connecting personal devices like smartphones, headphones, or keyboards.
❖ Example: Bluetooth
WMAN & WWAN
❖ WMANs cover larger areas, such as cities or regions, providing broadband wireless
access.
❖ Example: WiMAX
❖ WWANs cover large geographic areas, often nationwide or even global, using
cellular towers to provide mobile internet access.
❖ Example: Cellular networks (4G, 5G)
Components of a Wireless Network:
1. Wireless Access Points (WAPs): Devices that allow wireless devices to connect to a
wired network using Wi-Fi.
2. Wireless Network Interface Cards (WNICs): Hardware in devices that allows them to
connect to a wireless network.
3. Routers: Devices that direct traffic between different networks and manage
connections to the internet.
4. Antennas: Hardware that transmits and receives the wireless signals.
Advantages of Wireless Networks:
• Convenience: No need for cables, allowing easier setup and usage.
• Scalability: Easier to add new devices to the network.
• Cost-Effective: Reduces the need for extensive cabling infrastructure.
Disadvantages of Wireless Networks:
• Security Risks: Wireless networks are more susceptible to unauthorized access
and various attacks, such as eavesdropping or interference.
• Interference: Radio signals can be affected by physical obstacles, other electronic
devices, or even weather conditions.
• Speed and Reliability: Wireless connections may not be as fast or stable as wired
connections, especially in areas with many devices or interference.
• Wireless networks have become essential in modern communication, enabling

connectivity and data exchange in both personal and professional environments.
wireless terminologies
❑ Wireless networking involves a variety of terms and concepts. Here are some key
wireless terminologies that are important to understand:
❑ 1. Access Point (AP) A device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired
network using Wi-Fi or other wireless protocols. It acts as a central transmitter and
receiver for wireless communication.
❑ 2. SSID (Service Set Identifier) The unique name that identifies a wireless
network. When you search for available networks on your device, the SSID is what
you see listed.
3. BSSID (Basic Service Set Identifier) The MAC address of a specific access point.
While SSID is the network name, BSSID is the unique identifier of an AP within that
network.
4. WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) A type of local area network that uses
wireless communication technologies to connect devices within a limited area, such as
a home or office.
5. (Wireless Fidelity) A technology that allows devices to connect to the internet or
communicate with one another wirelessly within a particular area, typically using radio
waves in the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands.
6. WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) An outdated and less secure encryption protocol
for securing wireless networks. It has largely been replaced by more secure standards
like WPA and WPA2.
7. WPA/WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access) Security protocols and security
certification programs developed to secure wireless computer networks. WPA2 is the
more secure and widely used version.
8. WPA3 The latest Wi-Fi security protocol that provides enhanced protection against
brute-force attacks and offers stronger encryption and forward secrecy.
9. MAC Address (Media Access Control Address)A unique identifier assigned to
network interfaces for communications on the physical network segment. It's often
used to filter or restrict devices on a network.
10. Channel The specific frequency range used by a wireless network. Wi-Fi networks
can operate on different channels, which helps reduce interference from other
networks.
11. Frequency Bands
2.4 GHz Band: Offers longer range but slower speeds and is more susceptible to
interference from devices like microwaves and cordless phones.
5 GHz Band: Offers faster speeds but shorter range, with less interference, making
it ideal for high-speed internet and streaming.
12. Dual-Band/Tri-Band
Dual-Band: A router that can operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands,
allowing for more flexibility and reduced congestion.
Tri-Band: A router that operates on one 2.4 GHz band and two 5 GHz bands,
offering even more bandwidth for devices.
13. Beamforming A technology that improves Wi-Fi signal strength by directing the
wireless signal towards a specific device rather than broadcasting it in all directions.
14. MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) A technology that uses multiple
antennas at both the transmitter and receiver to improve communication performance,
enabling faster speeds and better range.
15. Mesh Network A type of network where multiple devices (like routers or access
points) work together to provide consistent and widespread Wi-Fi coverage across a
large area.
16. Roaming The process of a device moving from one access point to another within
the same network without losing the connection.
17. Latency The time it takes for data to travel from the source to the destination.
Lower latency means quicker communication, which is critical for real-time applications
like gaming or video conferencing.
18. Throughput The amount of data that can be transferred over a network in a given
amount of time, typically measured in Mbps (megabits per second).
19. Bandwidth The maximum rate of data transfer across a given path, often
confused with speed but actually refers to the capacity of the network connection.
20. Ad-Hoc Network A type of wireless network where devices communicate directly
with each other without using an access point. It's often used for temporary
connections between devices.
21. Bluetooth A short-range wireless technology standard used for exchanging data
between fixed and mobile devices over short distances using UHF radio waves.
22. Hotspot A physical location where people can access the internet, typically using
Wi-Fi, often provided by mobile devices or dedicated hardware.
23. RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) A technology that uses electromagnetic
fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. It’s commonly used
in inventory management and access control.
24. Infrared A wireless technology used for short-range communication in devices
like remote controls, often requiring a direct line of sight.
25. IoT (Internet of Things) A network of physical devices, vehicles, home
appliances, and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and
connectivity, enabling them to connect and exchange data.
Understanding these terms can help you better navigate and manage wireless
networks, whether at home, in the office, or in more complex environments.
Thanks!
Do you have any questions?
[email protected]

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Khatam-Al-Nabieen University

Computer Science Faculty

❖ A wireless network is a type of computer network that allows devices to connect

• Wireless networks have become essential in modern communication, enabling

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