TVET CERTIFICATE IV in NETWORKING

Wireless Network indoor

NITWI301
BDCPC301 Setup Wireless Network Indoor

Credits: Learning hours:

Sector: ICT 120

Sub-sector: Networking &
Internet Technology

Module Note Issue date:

Purpose statement

This core module describes the skills, knowledge and attitude required to identify wireless
local network components adequately. The learner will be able to install and configure
wireless network components, perform WLAN network security, verify WLAN connectivity,
conduct standard tests, measurements and write technical report.

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 LEARNING OUTCOME 1 - APPLY WIRELESS NETWORK CONCEPTS

1.1 Introduction to Wireless network

A wireless network is a type of computer network that uses wireless technologies, such as
radio waves, to connect devices and transmit data.
Wireless networks can provide mobility, convenience, and flexibility for users who want to
access the network without being restricted by cables or wires.
Wireless networks can also be used to extend the coverage and capacity of existing wired
networks, such as the Internet.
I. Application
Wireless networks have a wide range of applications in today's world, enabling convenient
and flexible communication and connectivity in various domains.
some key applications of wireless networks:
1. Internet Access: Wireless networks, such as Wi-Fi, provide high-speed internet access
to devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets in homes, offices, coffee shops, airports,
and other public places.
2. Mobile Communication: Cellular networks enable wireless communication for mobile
phones and other handheld devices, allowing voice calls, text messaging, and mobile data
services.
3. IoT (Internet of Things): Wireless networks play a crucial role in connecting a vast
array of IoT devices, including smart thermostats, security cameras, wearable devices, and
sensors for applications like home automation, industrial automation, and smart cities.
4. Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs): WLANs, based on standards like Wi-Fi, provide
wireless connectivity within a limited area, such as homes, businesses, and educational
institutions, facilitating wireless access to local resources and the internet.
5. Bluetooth: Bluetooth technology is used for short-range wireless communication
between devices, such as headphones, speakers, keyboards, and mice, as well as for data
transfer between smartphones and other gadgets.
6. Wireless Mesh Networks: These networks are used in scenarios where traditional
infrastructure-based connectivity is challenging. Mesh networks consist of interconnected
nodes that relay data, making them suitable for disaster recovery, remote areas, and
outdoor events.
7. Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint Links: Wireless connections can establish
dedicated links between two or more locations, serving purposes like building-to-building
connectivity, backhaul for remote areas, and connecting remote offices to the main
network.
8. Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) and Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) Communication:
Wireless networks in vehicles enable communication between vehicles and infrastructure,
enhancing road safety and traffic management in smart transportation systems.
9. Wireless Surveillance Systems: Wireless networks are used for video surveillance
systems, allowing cameras to transmit data to monitoring stations without the need for
physical cables.

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10. Healthcare: Wireless networks enable the transmission of patient data, remote
monitoring of vital signs, and communication among medical devices in healthcare settings,
improving patient care and efficiency.
11. Agriculture: In precision agriculture, wireless networks connect sensors, drones, and
machinery to monitor crops, optimize irrigation, and improve overall farm management.
12. Entertainment and Media: Wireless networks are used for streaming video and audio
content to various devices, including smartphones, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and media
players.
13. Emergency Services: First responders rely on wireless communication networks
during emergencies, enabling them to coordinate efforts and access critical information in
real-time.
14. Retail: Retailers use wireless networks for point-of-sale systems, inventory
management, and customer engagement through Wi-Fi access for shoppers.
15. Environmental Monitoring: Wireless sensor networks are deployed for environmental
monitoring in applications such as weather forecasting, air quality measurement, and
wildlife tracking.
16. Education: Wireless networks in educational institutions support online learning,
facilitate research, and provide connectivity for students and faculty.
17. Tourism and Hospitality: Hotels, resorts, and tourist destinations offer Wi-Fi to
guests, enhancing their experience and enabling online bookings and services.
18. Smart Homes: Wireless networks are the backbone of smart home systems, allowing
homeowners to control lighting, security, appliances, and entertainment devices remotely.
II. Benefits
Wireless networks offer numerous benefits across various domains, contributing to
increased convenience, flexibility, and efficiency in our daily lives. Here are some of the key
benefits of wireless networks:
1. Mobility: Wireless networks allow users to connect and communicate without being
tethered to a fixed location. This mobility is especially valuable for smartphones, laptops,
and other portable devices, enabling users to access information and services on the go.
2. Convenience: Wireless connectivity eliminates the need for physical cables and
connections, making it easier to set up and use devices. This convenience is evident in Wi-
Fi networks, Bluetooth connections, and other wireless technologies.
3. Flexibility: Wireless networks can be easily deployed and adapted to various
environments, including homes, offices, public spaces, and remote areas. This flexibility
enables quick and cost-effective network expansion or modification.
4. Scalability: Wireless networks can scale up or down to accommodate changing
demands. Additional devices or access points can be added to extend coverage and
capacity, making it suitable for growing businesses or events with fluctuating connectivity
needs.
5. Cost-Effective: Wireless networks often require less initial infrastructure investment
compared to wired networks, as they eliminate the need for extensive cabling and
installation. This cost savings can be especially beneficial for small businesses and remote
locations.

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6. Accessibility: Wireless networks provide access to the internet and digital services in
areas where it may be challenging or expensive to lay traditional cables, such as rural or
underserved regions.
7. Productivity: Wireless connectivity enhances productivity by allowing employees to
work from anywhere within the network's coverage area. This flexibility can lead to
increased collaboration and efficiency.
8. Innovation: Wireless networks enable the deployment of innovative technologies, such
as IoT devices, smart appliances, and wearable gadgets, which enhance our quality of life
and streamline various processes.
9. Remote Monitoring and Control: Wireless networks support remote monitoring and
control of devices and systems, making it possible to manage security cameras, home
automation, industrial processes, and environmental sensors from a distance.
10. Disaster Recovery: Wireless networks can play a crucial role in disaster recovery by
providing emergency communication when traditional infrastructure is damaged or
disrupted. First responders can rely on wireless networks to coordinate rescue efforts.
11. Environmental Benefits: The reduced need for physical cabling in wireless networks
can lead to fewer resources being used in manufacturing and installation, which can
contribute to environmental sustainability.
12. Improved Quality of Life: Wireless networks have improved the quality of life for
people with disabilities by enabling assistive technologies, such as speech-to-text
applications, screen readers, and remote monitoring systems for healthcare.
13. Entertainment and Connectivity: Wireless networks support a wide range of
entertainment options, from streaming video and music to online gaming, providing users
with access to a vast array of content and services.
14. Efficient Data Transfer: Technologies like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi offer fast and efficient
data transfer, enhancing the speed and convenience of sharing files and media between
devices.
15. Smart Cities: Wireless networks are a fundamental component of smart city initiatives,
enabling efficient traffic management, environmental monitoring, public Wi-Fi access, and
more.

1.2 Identification of wireless network Types

There are different types of wireless networks,
depending on the size, range, and purpose of the network. Some of the common types
are:
I. Wireless personal area network (WPAN):
This is a wireless network that connects devices within a short distance, usually a few
meters. WPANs are typically used for personal or private use, such as connecting a
smartphone to a headset or a printer. Examples of WPAN technologies are Bluetooth,
infrared, and ZigBee
II. Wireless local area network (WLAN):
This is a wireless network that connects devices within a limited area, usually a few
hundred meters. WLANs are typically used for home or office use, such as connecting
laptops to routers or access points. Examples of WLAN technologies are Wi-Fi, WiMAX,
and HiperLAN

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 III. Wireless metropolitan area network (WMAN):
This is a wireless network that connects devices within a large area, usually a few
kilometers. WMANs are typically used for public or commercial use, such as
providing broadband internet access to a city or a campus. Examples of WMAN
technologies are WiMAX, LTE, and 5G
IV. Wireless wide area network (WWAN):
This is a wireless network that connects devices across a very large area, usually
hundreds or thousands of kilometers. WWANs are typically used for global or mobile
use, such as providing cellular phone service or satellite communication. Examples of
WWAN technologies are GSM, CDMA, and GPS.

1.3 Identification of wireless network components

I. Wireless NICs

A Wireless Network Interface Card (NIC), often referred to as a Wi-Fi adapter or wireless
adapter, is a hardware component that allows a computer or device to connect to a wireless
network. Wireless NICs play a critical role in enabling wireless communication and
connectivity in laptops, desktop computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
II. Wireless Router/Home router

A wireless router or a home router is a device that connects to a modem and

provides wireless network access to multiple devices, such as computers,
smartphones, tablets, printers, etc. A wireless router can also perform other
functions, such as firewall, DHCP server, VPN server, etc

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 There are many types and models of wireless routers available on the market
today.
Some of the factors that you may want to consider when choosing a wireless
router are:

• Wireless standard: Wireless routers use different standards or protocols to

communicate with the devices and the network.
The most common standards are IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, also known as Wi-Fi
4/5/6/6E. The newer standards offer higher data rates, lower latency, and better
performance than the older ones.

• Wireless band: Wireless routers use different frequency bands to transmit and
receive data. The most common bands are 2.4GHz and 5GHz. The 2.4GHz band
offers wider coverage and compatibility, but it is more prone to interference and
congestion. The 5GHz band offers faster speed and less interference, but it has
shorter range and less penetration. Some routers can use both bands simultaneously
or switch between them automatically, which is called dual-band or tri-band

• Wireless speed: Wireless routers have different maximum speeds that they can support,
depending on the wireless standard, band, channel width, modulation technique, and
number of streams or antennas. The wireless speed is usually expressed in Mbps (megabits
per second) or Gbps (gigabits per second). However, the actual speed that you can achieve
may vary depending on the distance, interference, device capability, network traffic, etc
• Wireless security: Wireless routers have different security features that can help protect
your network and devices from unauthorized access or attack. Some of the common
security features are encryption, password, firewall, MAC filtering, guest network, parental
control, etc. You should always enable and configure the security settings of your router to
prevent hackers or intruders from compromising your network or data.
III. Access point

An access point is a device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network. It
acts as a bridge between the wireless and wired networks, and can also provide security
and management features. An access point can be a standalone device, or an integral
component of a wireless router.

Some of the benefits of using an access point are:

• It can extend the coverage and capacity of a wireless network by adding more access
points to the existing network.

• It can improve the performance and quality of service of a wireless network by reducing
interference and congestion

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• It can support different wireless standards and protocols, such as Wi-Fi 4, Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi
6, or Wi-Fi 6E, which offer different data rates, latency, and spectrum efficiency.

IV. Wireless Antennas

Wireless antennas are essential components of wireless communication systems.

They play a crucial role in transmitting and receiving radio frequency (RF) signals,
allowing devices to communicate wirelessly over various wireless technologies such
as Wi-Fi, cellular networks, Bluetooth, GPS, and more.

the key aspects of wireless antennas:

1. Function: Wireless antennas convert electrical signals into electromagnetic waves

for transmission and vice versa for reception. They focus and direct RF energy in
specific directions to establish wireless connections between devices.

2. Transmitting and Receiving: Antennas can serve dual purposes, transmitting

and receiving signals. Transmit antennas send data from a device, while receiving
antennas capture incoming signals.

3. Frequency Range: Antennas are designed for specific frequency bands. The
design and dimensions of an antenna are tailored to match the frequency of the
wireless system it is used with. Different wireless technologies operate in different
frequency bands, such as 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz for Wi-Fi.

4. Antenna Types:
• Omnidirectional antennas: These are antennas that radiate or receive radio
waves in all directions equally. They are typically used for wireless networks that
need 360-degree coverage, such as Wi-Fi routers or mobile adapters. Examples of
omnidirectional antennas are dipole, rubber duck, or dome antennas.
• Directional antennas: These are antennas that focus or concentrate radio waves
in a specific direction or beam. They are typically used for wireless networks that
need long-distance or point-to-point communication, such as satellite dishes or
cellular towers. Examples of directional antennas are Yagi, parabolic, or horn
antennas

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 • MIMO antennas: These are antennas that use multiple input and multiple output
(MIMO) technology to transmit and receive multiple radio signals simultaneously.
They are typically used for wireless networks that need high-speed and high-capacity
communication, such as Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6. Examples of MIMO antennas are patch,
panel, or sector antennas.

V. Wireless controller
A wireless controller is a handheld input device used to interact with electronic devices
such as gaming consoles, computers, smartphones, and more, without the need for
physical cables. These controllers communicate with the target device using wireless
technologies like Bluetooth or proprietary radio frequencies. Wireless controllers are
commonly used for gaming but also find applications in other fields like home automation,
robotics, and remote control of various devices.
Here are some key features and uses of wireless controllers:
1. Gaming: Wireless controllers are widely used for gaming on consoles like the
PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC. They provide a more convenient and clutter-
free gaming experience compared to wired controllers.
2. Bluetooth: Many wireless controllers use Bluetooth technology to connect to devices like
smartphones, tablets, and PCs. Bluetooth controllers are versatile and can be used for
various purposes beyond gaming, such as media control and presentations.
3. Proprietary RF: Some gaming consoles, like the Xbox, use proprietary radio frequency
(RF) technology for their wireless controllers. These controllers offer low-latency
communication and are specifically designed for gaming.
4. Battery-Powered: Wireless controllers typically run on batteries, which need to be
periodically replaced or recharged. The battery life varies depending on the controller's
design, usage, and the type of batteries used.
5. Versatility: Wireless controllers can be used for a wide range of applications, from
playing video games to controlling smart home devices, drones, and even industrial
equipment.
There are many wireless controllers available for various devices and applications.
Here are some examples of wireless controllers:
1. Gaming Controllers:

- Xbox Wireless Controller: Designed for use with Xbox consoles and Windows PCs. It
utilizes Xbox Wireless or Bluetooth connectivity.
- PlayStation DualShock 4/5: Used with PlayStation consoles and compatible with PCs.
The DualShock 5 is the successor to the DualShock 4 and comes with additional features
like haptic feedback.
- Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: Designed for the Nintendo Switch but can also be
used with Windows PCs via Bluetooth.

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 - Steam Controller: Developed by Valve for use with the Steam gaming platform. It offers
customizable controls and touch-sensitive trackpads.
2. PC and Mobile Controllers:
- Logitech Gamepad F310/F710:

These controllers are compatible with Windows PCs and offer wireless connectivity using a
USB dongle.
- SteelSeries Nimbus: Designed for iOS devices, this controller connects via Bluetooth
and is popular for mobile gaming.
- Razer Kishi: A mobile game controller that attaches to smartphones, providing physical
controls for mobile gaming.
2. TV and Media Controllers:

- Amazon Fire TV Remote: Used to control Amazon Fire TV devices. It uses Bluetooth
for wireless communication.
- Apple TV Remote: Comes with Apple TV devices and uses Bluetooth for control.
- Roku Remote: Roku streaming devices come with their own remote controls that use
Wi-Fi Direct for wireless communication.

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 3. Drone Controllers:

- DJI Remote Controllers: DJI, a popular drone manufacturer, offers wireless remote
controllers for their drones, such as the DJI Smart Controller.
4. Home Automation and Smart Home Controllers:

- Smart Home Hub Controllers: Devices like the Amazon Echo and Google Home use
wireless controllers to interact with smart home devices via voice commands.
5. Industrial and Robotics Controllers:

- Industrial Remote Control Systems: Used in various industries for controlling

machinery and equipment wirelessly, improving safety and efficiency.

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 6. RC Car and Drone Transmitters:

- RC Car and Drone Controllers: Hobbyists often use wireless controllers to operate
remote-controlled cars, drones, and other RC vehicles.

VI. Wireless bridges

A wireless bridge is a device that connects two or more networks wirelessly, allowing them
to communicate and share data.
Wireless bridges can be used to extend the range and coverage of a wireless network, or to
link two wired networks without using cables.
Wireless bridges can support different wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or
Zigbee, and different network protocols, such as IP, IPX, or AppleTalk.
Wireless Technologies: Wireless bridges use various wireless technologies, including Wi-Fi
(802.11), WiMAX, and proprietary wireless protocols.
The choice of technology depends on factors such as distance, data rate requirements, and
environmental conditions
Some of the benefits of using wireless bridges are:
• They are easy to install and configure, as they do not require any wiring or drilling.
• They are flexible and scalable, as they can adapt to different network topologies and
sizes.
• They are cost-effective and energy-efficient, as they reduce the need for expensive and
power-consuming cables and switches.
Some of the challenges of using wireless bridges are:
• They are susceptible to interference and signal loss, as they depend on the quality and
strength of the wireless signal.
• They are vulnerable to security and privacy breaches, as they can be hacked or
eavesdropped by unauthorized users.

There are different types of wireless bridges available in the market, such as:
• Wi-Fi to Ethernet bridge: This type of bridge connects a Wi-Fi network to an Ethernet
network, allowing Wi-Fi devices to access the wired network.
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For example, you can use this bridge to connect a gaming console or a smart TV to your
home network
• Wi-Fi to Wi-Fi bridge: This type of bridge connects two Wi-Fi networks, extending the
coverage area of a Wi-Fi hotspot.
For example, you can use this bridge to connect your home network to your neighbor's
network
• Bluetooth to Wi-Fi bridge: This type of bridge connects Bluetooth devices to a Wi-Fi
network, enabling them to access the internet or other network services.
For example, you can use this bridge to connect your smartphone or tablet to your printer
or speaker

1.4 Application of Wireless technologies

I. Short range /Low power
Short-range and low-power wireless technologies are a type of wireless communication
that can operate over a distance of less than 100 meters and consume minimal energy.
They are often used for applications that require data exchange between small devices,
such as sensors, actuators, controllers, and other IoT devices.
Some of the benefits of short-range and low-power wireless technologies are:
• They are easy to install and configure, as they do not require any wiring or drilling.
• They are flexible and scalable, as they can adapt to different network topologies and
sizes.
• They are cost-effective and energy-efficient, as they reduce the need for expensive and
power-consuming cables and switches.
Some of the challenges of short-range and low-power wireless technologies are:
• They are susceptible to interference and signal loss, as they depend on the quality and
strength of the wireless signal.
• They are vulnerable to security and privacy breaches, as they can be hacked or
eavesdropped by unauthorized users.

Some examples of short-range and low-power wireless technologies are:

• Wi-Fi: This is a technology that provides high-speed digital communication over the local
area network (LAN).
Wi-Fi can offer speeds up to 100 Mbps for downloading and 10 Mbps for uploading,
depending on the network and the number of users.
Wi-Fi also supports IPv6, so it can send data to the cloud without an additional router or
gateway

• Bluetooth LE(Low Energy): This is a technology that provides low-energy wireless

communication over a personal area network (PAN). Bluetooth LE can offer speeds up to 1
Mbps for both downloading and uploading, depending on the device and the environment.
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Bluetooth LE is based on adaptive frequency hopping, which reduces interference and
increases range.
Bluetooth LE also supports mesh networking, which allows devices to relay data to each
other without a central hub
• Zigbee: This is a technology that provides low-power wireless communication over a low-
rate wireless personal area network (LR-WPAN).
Zigbee can offer speeds up to 250 kbps for both downloading and uploading, depending on
the device and the frequency band. Zigbee is based on direct sequence spread spectrum,
which enhances security and robustness. Zigbee also supports mesh networking, which
allows devices to form self-healing networks without a central coordinato
• Thread: This is a technology that provides low-power wireless communication over an
IPv6-based mesh network.
Thread can offer speeds up to 250 kbps for both downloading and uploading, depending on
the device and the frequency band. Thread is based on IEEE 802.15.4-compliant radio,
which enables interoperability with Zigbee devices.
Thread also supports IPv6 routing, which allows devices to communicate directly with each
other or with the cloud without a gateway
II. Large range
Large range wireless technologies are wireless communication systems that can operate
over a distance of more than 100 meters and provide high data rates and bandwidth.
They are often used for applications that require data exchange between large devices,
such as computers, routers, satellites, and aircraft.
Some of the benefits of large range wireless technologies are:
• They can cover a wide area and reach remote locations, such as rural areas, oceans, or
space.
• They can provide high-speed internet access and multimedia services, such as video
streaming, gaming, or conferencing.
• They can support multiple users and devices simultaneously, using techniques such as
multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) or beamforming.
Some of the challenges of large range wireless technologies are:
• They require more power and resources to transmit and receive signals, which can
increase costs and energy consumption.
• They are vulnerable to security and privacy breaches, as they can be hacked or jammed
by malicious users.

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Some examples of large range wireless technologies are:
• Wi-Fi:

This is a technology that provides high-speed digital communication over the local area
network (LAN).
Wi-Fi can offer speeds up to 100 Mbps for downloading and 10 Mbps for uploading,
depending on the network and the number of users.
Wi-Fi also supports IPv6, so it can send data to the cloud without an additional router or
gateway

• Cellular:

This is a technology that provides wireless communication over a cellular network. Cellular
can offer speeds up to 10 Gbps for downloading and 1 Gbps for uploading, depending on
the generation and the carrier.

Cellular is based on frequency division multiple access (FDMA), which divides the
spectrum into multiple channels for different users.
Cellular also supports roaming, which allows users to switch between different networks
and regions

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• Satellite:

This is a technology that provides wireless communication over a satellite network. Satellite
can offer speeds up to 100 Mbps for downloading and 4 Mbps for uploading, depending on
the orbit and the service provider.

Satellite also supports global positioning system (GPS), which provides location and
navigation services

• Radio:

This is a technology that provides wireless communication over a radio frequency (RF)
spectrum. Radio can offer speeds up to 1 Gbps for both downloading and uploading,
depending on the modulation and the bandwidth.

Radio is based on amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), or phase

modulation (PM), which encode information into the signal. Radio also supports radar
communication, which uses radio waves to detect objects and measure their distance and
speed

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1.5 Classification of Wireless network standards
Wireless network standards are protocols or sets of specifications that define how wireless
communication should work between devices and access points.
These standards are developed and maintained by various organizations, such as the
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the Wi-Fi Alliance.
Wireless network standards are classified into different categories based on various factors,
including their purpose, frequency bands, data rates, and capabilities.
Here is a classification of some common wireless network standards:
1. Wi-Fi Standards:
- Wi-Fi 1 (802.11b): Introduced in 1999, it operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band and
offers data rates up to 11 Mbps.
- Wi-Fi 2 (802.11a): Also introduced in 1999, it operates in the 5 GHz frequency band
and provides data rates up to 54 Mbps.
- Wi-Fi 3 (802.11g): Released in 2003, it operates in the 2.4 GHz band and offers data
rates up to 54 Mbps.
- Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n): Introduced in 2009, it operates in both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
bands, providing data rates up to 600 Mbps.
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac): Introduced in 2013, it operates in the 5 GHz band and offers data
rates up to several gigabits per second (Gbps).
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax): Introduced in 2019, it operates in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands
and offers significantly increased data rates and improved performance, especially in
crowded environments.
2. Cellular Network Standards:
- 2G (Second Generation): Includes standards like GSM and CDMA for voice and low-
speed data communication.
- 3G (Third Generation): Includes standards like UMTS and CDMA2000, providing
higher data rates for mobile internet and multimedia.
- 4G (Fourth Generation, LTE): Offers significantly faster data rates, enabling high-
quality video streaming and advanced mobile applications.
- 5G (Fifth Generation): The latest standard, 5G provides even higher data rates, low
latency, and massive device connectivity for a wide range of applications, including IoT and
autonomous vehicles.
3. IoT and Low-Power Standards:
- Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE): Designed for short-range, low-power communication
between devices.
- Zigbee: A wireless standard for low-power, short-range communication often used in
IoT applications.
- LoRaWAN (Long-Range Wide Area Network): Provides long-range, low-power
communication for IoT devices.
- Sigfox: A proprietary low-power, wide-area IoT network technology.
4. Specialized Standards:
- Bluetooth: Used for short-range wireless communication between devices like
headphones, keyboards, and smartphones.
- NFC (Near Field Communication): Enables short-range communication for contactless
payments, access control, and data exchange.
- UWB (Ultra-Wideband): Provides precise location tracking and high-speed data transfer
over short distances.
- WirelessHART: A wireless standard for process automation and industrial control
systems.
5. Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint Standards:
- Microwave Links: Used for point-to-point high-capacity data transmission over long
distances.
- WiMAX (802.16): Designed for point-to-multipoint broadband wireless access over large
areas.
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1.6 Operation mode of Wireless network

I. Ad-hoc mode

Ad-hoc mode of wireless network is a type of network configuration that allows wireless
devices to communicate directly with each other without using a central device like a router
or an access point.

Ad-hoc mode is also known as peer-to-peer or independent basic service set (IBSS)
mode

Some of the advantages of ad-hoc mode are:

• It is easy to set up and does not require any wiring or infrastructure.

• It is flexible and scalable, as it can adapt to different network sizes and topologies.

• It is cost-effective and energy-efficient, as it reduces the need for expensive and power-
consuming devices

Some of the disadvantages of ad-hoc mode are:

• It is susceptible to interference and signal loss, as it depends on the quality and strength
of the wireless signal.

• It is vulnerable to security and privacy breaches, as it can be hacked or eavesdropped by

unauthorized users

Some of the applications of ad-hoc mode are:

• Sharing files or data directly with another device without using a Wi-Fi network.

• Creating a temporary network in emergency situations where there is no existing network

available.

• Connecting peripheral devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, and speakers

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II. Infrastructure mode

Infrastructure mode of wireless network is a type of network configuration that uses a

central device, such as a router or an access point, to connect wireless devices to each
other and to a wired network.
In infrastructure mode, wireless devices communicate through the central device, which
coordinates the traffic and provides security and management features
Some of the advantages of infrastructure mode are:
• It can provide high-speed data transfer, resource sharing, and internet access to the
wireless devices.
• It can reduce the interference and signal loss, as the central device has a stronger and
more stable wireless signal than the individual devices.
• It can improve the reliability and availability, as the central device can handle the failures
and errors of the wireless network
Some of the disadvantages of infrastructure mode are:
• It requires more cost and resources to set up and maintain the central device, which can
also consume more power and energy.
• It can be vulnerable to security and privacy breaches, as the central device can be
hacked or compromised by unauthorized users
Some of the applications of infrastructure mode are:
• Home networks with wireless routers that provide wireless connectivity to computers,
smartphones, tablets, printers, smart TVs, and other devices

• Business networks with wireless access points that provide wireless connectivity to
laptops, desktops, servers, printers, scanners, and other devices
• Public networks with wireless hotspots that provide wireless connectivity to internet
users in places such as cafes, hotels, airports, and libraries

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