Are you wondering what is WLAN?
That’s what we’re going to discuss in this article. Some people confuse WLANs with WiFi. However, they’re not the same thing.
While WiFI is a type of WLAN, the opposite isn’t true. People wanting to implement a wireless network in their homes or offices should know this difference.
So, let’s learn about WLANs, including their types, architecture, hotspots, workings, and pros and cons.
What Is WLAN Network?
WLAN stands for Wireless Local Area Network. It’s a network that connects devices wirelessly within a limited area, such as a home, office, or campus. You’ll learn the detailed workings of a WLAN later in this article. All we’ll say right now is that they typically use radio waves.
However, how they use these radio waves differs from type to type. So, let’s discuss those types to further answer, “What is WLAN network?”
Starting with the most common type of WLAN, the infrastructure mode relies on wireless access points to connect devices. While you can use multiple access points, each device must be within range to connect to the network.
On the other hand, you don’t need access points to create an ad hoc WLAN. Here, the devices communicate directly with each other. They use peer-to-peer communication protocols where each device acts as a client and a node.
Thirdly, bridge WLANs connect two or more separate networks. As a result, they can communicate with each other as if they were a single network.
Lastly, the wireless distribution system, or WDS, extends the coverage area so multiple access points can communicate with each other.
Grasping the Architecture of a WLAN Network
After getting an introduction to “What is the WLAN?” and its types, let’s move on to its architecture. Doing so will help you understand its structure and how it functions to provide wireless connectivity:
- Modem: People often confuse modems with routers. However, these are two separate devices that work together to provide Internet signals. Modems get a WAN (wide area network) link from your ISP (Internet service provider), which transforms into a LAN link.
- Router or gateway: LAN signals come to the router from the modem. It uses the IP routing protocol to route traffic from the LAN to the Internet. However, the router and modem sometimes come in a single device or gateway.
- Switches: The router has ports that you can use to connect switches. These devices receive the LAN link from the router and distribute the connection to multiple access points.
- Access points: These devices transmit and receive wireless signals, allowing wireless devices to connect to the network.
- Ethernet cable: You can’t use any cable to connect the above devices. You need Ethernet cables with RJ45 connectors to receive and transmit data signals.
- Stations: These are any end devices, wired or wireless, that you connect within the LAN network. However, in the context of a wireless LAN, “stations” usually refer to wireless devices like laptops, mobile phones, etc.
- Basic Service Set (BSS): It includes one access point and all the wireless devices connected to it.
- Extended Service Set (ESS): This is an extension of BSS, with multiple access points and wireless devices connected to each.
- Distribution system: This network component links multiple access points so they can work together cohesively. As a result, the devices get a wide range and can roam freely from one access point to the other.
What Is WLAN Hotspot?
A WLAN hotspot is simply a specific area where users can connect to a wireless network. Typically, a router or access point provides this network. While this sounds similar to a WiFi hotspot, there’s a difference.
If you investigate “What is a WLAN hotspot?” you’ll find it’s a physical location where a WLAN provides wireless connectivity. This could use radio waves, infrared, or even visible light.
On the other hand, a WiFi hotspot is a type of WLAN hotspot that specifically uses radio waves. You’ll often find WiFi hotspots in places like parks, malls, and coffee shops.
Understanding the Working of a WLAN
You should always check how a particular technology works before implementing it, even if you aren’t technical. So, let’s talk about how a WLAN works to extend our discussion on “What is a WLAN?”
However, we’ll only focus on the wireless aspects since including modems, routers, and switches will make the process too technical. So, here’s what you need to know.
- Access points emit or receive signals, whether radio waves, microwaves, or other technologies.
- WLANs also have authentication and encryption processes. When a device tries to connect to the WLAN, authentication protocols make sure only authorized devices can connect. On the other hand, encryption protocols, like WiFi Protected Access (WPA), protect the network.
- The access points manage data flow between devices and the network, regardless of the signal type.
- Next, devices get unique IP addresses for network communication.
- Since a WLAN is wireless, devices can smoothly transition between access points as they move within the network’s coverage area.
- Lastly, admins configure and monitor the network for optimal performance, adjusting based on the technology used.
The Pros and Cons of Using a WLAN
The above discussion might have prompted you to create a WLAN for your home or office. However, you should always look at the pros and cons of any technology before pursuing it. So, here’s what you need to know about WLANs.
Starting with the advantages, it provides a reliable wireless communication source. You can move from place to place without worrying about versatility and mobility.
Moreover, the lack of wires makes WLANs easier to manage than wired networks. The installation process is also easy.
However, WLANs are generally less secure than wired networks and offer a limited coverage area. They are also most susceptible to interference from other devices that use microwaves or radio waves. Lastly, due to their lower bandwidth, they can only support a limited number of users or devices.
Frequently Asked Questions About WLAN
Exploring WLAN is no small task. So, to understand this technology further, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
Is WiFi and WLAN the same thing?
No, WiFi and WLAN are not the same thing. While people use these terms interchangeably, there is a difference.
WLAN can be any wireless connection between devices and networks. The most common technology that WLANs use is high-frequency radio waves. Since WiFi also uses radio waves, it is a type of WLAN, not the entire concept. Basically, all WiFi networks are WLANs, but all WLANs are not WiFi networks.
How does WLAN work?
WLAN uses radio waves to connect devices within a limited area, such as a home or office.
Devices in this network communicate wirelessly with a central access point or router. These devices manage data transmission and network access. That’s how devices share information and access the Internet through WLANs without physical cables.
How do I set up my WLAN?
To set up your WLAN, connect your router to the modem and power it on. Next, access the router’s settings using a web browser of your choice.
This will allow you to configure your WLAN’s name and password through the router’s settings. You can also explore the settings and change anything else, such as security settings and network channels.
Save the settings, restart the router, and connect your devices to the WLAN using the name and password.
Use WLAN for Enhanced Convenience and Connectivity
Since WiFi is common, many people wonder, “What is WLAN?” Use the information in this article to help you. Wired connections are fast, reliable, and secure. However, physical cables limit people in many ways.
They don’t let you move freely or connect to the Internet on the go. That’s why people prefer wireless networks. It’s time for you to create a safe and secure WiFi connection, so try Beambox.
You can create captive portals to authenticate users. Additionally, Beambox rotates passwords automatically and allows you to manage the bandwidth, ensuring a smooth internet for users. Start your trial now!
