A Look at the Different Types of Wireless Networks: Which Network is Right for You?
Wireless networks. Wi-Fi. You can’t walk into a restaurant or store without seeing a sign with those words or hearing someone mention those words. A wireless network is a computer network that does not have to be connected by cables. Wireless networking provides an outlet for devices to stay connected without the need for them to be tethered to any cable. You can use your smartphone or other mobile devices to connect to a wireless network connection at your favorite coffee shop, you can print documents wirelessly, and you can take care of your day-to-day business responsibilities without the need to install long and obtrusive cables.
There are several types of wireless communication systems, but an identifying attribute of a wireless network is that communication occurs between computer devices. These devices include smartphones, laptops, PCs, servers, etc. Over the past few years, we have seen a significant increase in the number of the Internet of Things (IoT) applications and connected devices. Wireless connectivity is at the center of the IoT.
Wireless networks make use of wireless data connections to obtain and transmit data through radio waves. A wireless network is extremely convenient since it eliminates the need to have a variety of wires in place to support devices and systems. Wireless networks are adaptable with low costs and provide first-class standards of service. There are different types of wireless networks, and each wireless network is made to serve a different purpose. Some wireless networks are designed to serve homes, while other wireless networks are designed to serve entire communities.
What Are The Types of Wireless Networks?
As with networks that use wire or optical fiber, wireless networks transport information between devices. The information that is being conveyed can come in the form of e-mail messages, web pages, customer and client records, video messages, audio messages, etc. In many cases, wireless networks transfer a wealth of data, such as messages and data files. Wireless network advancements are enabling support for all types of communications.
Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)
A WWAN is a network that covers a large geographic area. Wireless Wide Area Networks offer the most far-reaching range of all wireless networks. Wireless Wide Area Networks work through mobile phones or public networks and provide an outlet for employees to access data in real-time. Wireless Wide Area Networks can be accessed anywhere cellular network connections and services are available, using cellular network technologies such as LTE, GSM, or cellular digital packet data (CDPD) to transfer data. Wireless Wide Area Networks allow both data and voice to be successfully transmitted.
Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks (WMAN)
Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks (WMAN) can connect multiple WLANs in a metropolitan area, such as several buildings in a city. Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks creates a solid foundation for creation, and provides high-speed internet access to business subscribers. Due to the strong wireless connectivity, Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks are generally used as a backup for wired networks. Usually, the Wireless Metropolitan Networks fall in between Wireless Wide Area Networks and Wireless Local Area Networks.
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
Wireless Local Area Networks are wireless networks that use radio waves. The cornerstone network typically uses cables, with one or more wireless access points (WAPs) connecting wireless users to the wired network. Wireless Local Area Networks are used to connect local resources to the internet. A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) can be found anywhere in areas within an organization and can be considered a wireless extension of the local area network.
Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN)
Wireless Personal Area Networks are short-range networks that use Bluetooth technology. Wireless Personal Area Networks are typically used to connect compatible devices near a central location. A Wireless Personal Area Network allows for the connectivity of personal devices within an area of about 30 feet.
Why Is Wireless Networking Important?
Wireless networking has been the face of networking for quite some time. Cell phones and other smart devices are types of popular wireless communication for people connecting to each other worldwide. Wireless networking is not only less expensive than traditional wired networking, but wireless network is easier to install. Many organizations are making the decision to use one of the wireless networks instead of continuing to use their existing wired connection, in order to leverage the benefits, such as the following:
- Wireless networking is not only a viable solution for information sharing, but it increases productivity.
- You can have access to emails, files, applications, and other network resources without the need for a wired connection. Your employees do not have to be tied down to a desk to do their job; your employees will have constant access to everything they need to do their job.
- When we compare wireless networks to wired networks, wireless networks are more cost-effective because they reduce the number of cables and other networking accessories. Wireless networking does not require as much maintenance as wired networks because there is no wiring involved.
- One of the advantages of wireless networking is mobility because it enables users to access the server from anywhere within the walls of the room. Users will also be able to connect to servers remotely when they are away from the home or office.
- Wireless networking has solid security standards because it involves advanced encryption technology.
- Wireless networking provides greater speed for businesses and organizations of all sizes.
Determining the right wireless network and its required components can be confusing and challenging. For offices, businesses, and organizations, it is important to understand the best way to go. It is important to determine which wireless network will offer the range of capabilities and benefits that your business or organization needs.
Wireless Network Services By V & C Solutions
Wireless communication is a revolution that is showing no signs of slowing down. There are different types of wireless networks that can be implemented in your organization. If you want to know which wireless networking medium would be suitable for your organization’s unique needs, do not hesitate to contact V&C Solutions today to schedule a consultation.
