What is WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)?
A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) is a flexible data communications system that can either replace or extend a wired LAN to provide added functionality. A traditional, wired local area network (LAN) sends packets of data from one piece of equipment to another across cables or wires. A wireless local area network (WLAN) relies instead upon radio waves to transfer data. What is the hardware requirement for WLAN? WLAN consist of two main building blocks including an access point that connects to the network and a wireless adapter installed in the computing device. Access point-An access point is a small box, usually with one or two antennas. This radio-based, receiver/transmitter is connected to the wired LAN (or broadband connection) using Ethernet cables. Antennas and bridges-Antennas enhance the radio frequency coverage extending the range of an 802.11 WLAN. Bridges provide point-to-point wireless connection between two LANs, like different floors. Wireless adapter-A wireless adapte
