Wi-Fi Technology

AGENDA
Introduction to wireless technologies Wireless networking overview Wi-Fi architecture WI-Fi network elements Wi-Fi network topologies How a wi-Fi network works Wi-Fi Security Applications of Wi-Fi Advantages/ Disadvantages of Wi-Fi

INTRODUCTION
Wireless Technology is an alternative to Wired

Technology, which is commonly used, for connecting devices in wireless mode.

Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) is a generic term that

refers to the IEEE 802.11 communications standard for Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs).
Wi-Fi Network connect computers to each other,

to the internet and to the wired network.

How a Wi-Fi Network Works

Basic concept is same as Walkie talkies. A Wi-Fi hotspot is created by installing an access point to an internet connection. An access point acts as a base station. When Wi-Fi enabled device encounters a hotspot the device can then connect to that network wirelessly. A single access point can support up to 30 users and can function within a range of 100 150 feet indoors and up to 300 feet outdoors. Many access points can be connected to each other via Ethernet cables to create a single large network.

Wi-Fi Network Topologies

AP-based topology (Infrastructure Mode)
Peer-to-peer topology (Ad-hoc Mode) Point-to-multipoint bridge topology

AP-based topology

The client communicate through Access Point. BSA-RF coverage provided by an AP. ESA-It consists of 2 or more BSA.

Peer-to-peer topology

AP is not required. Client devices within a cell can communicate directly with each other. It is useful for setting up of a wireless network quickly and easily.

Point-to-multipoint bridge topology

This is used to connect a LAN in one building to a LANs in other buildings even if the buildings are miles apart. .These conditions receive a clear line of sight between buildings. ex: antena,wireless bridge.

Connecting to a legacy network

Access Points connect the wireless network to the legacy network.

Future Wireless Networks

Ubiquitous Communication Among People and Devices
Wireless Internet access Nth generation Cellular Wireless Ad Hoc Networks Sensor Networks Wireless Entertainment Smart Homes/Spaces Automated Highways

Wi-Fi Security
The requirements for Wi-Fi network security can be broken down into two primary components: Authentication

User Authentication Server Authentication

Privacy

Authentication

Keeping unauthorized users off the network User Authentication

Authentication Server is used Username and password Risk:

Solution

Data (username & password) send before secure channel established Prone to passive eavesdropping by attacker Establishing a encrypted channel before sending username and password

Wireless Network Components

Access

Points NICs Network Interface Cards

PCMCIA USB PCI CompactFlash

Other

Wireless Devices

Bridges and Routers Print Servers

PCs,

Laptops, PDAs

Wi-Fi Applications

Home Small Businesses or SOHO Large Corporations & Campuses Health Care Wireless ISP (WISP) Travellers

Advantages

Mobility Ease of Installation Flexibility Cost Reliability Security Use unlicensed part of the radio spectrum Roaming Speed

Limitations

Interference Degradation in performance High power consumption Limited range 300 ft. effective range from access point
1400 ft maximum range