25-02-2013, 11:39 AM
Wireless Networks(WLAN)
WLAN.ppt (Size: 735 KB / Downloads: 98)
What is wireless networking?
Technically, wireless networking refers to any data exchange between PCs and other devices which doesn’t involve cables.
Connecting to a wireless hotspot in a cafe, sending data from your PC to a handheld computer using an infrared link, or synching data between your mobile phone and notebook via Bluetooth are all examples of wireless networking.
Although any technology that does this could be called wireless networking, the term generally refers to wireless LANs (WLAN). A WLAN is a grouping of network components connected by electromagnetic (radio) waves instead of cables.
A wireless LAN basically consists of: the network backbone; end-user devices suchas data collection units, handheld computers and laptops; wireless LAN access points; wireless cards; and software that will help you manage the network.
Wireless Networking-steps
Install the adapter according to the manufacturer's instructions. (If you are using a PCI adapter, you'll have to turn off the computer, open the casing, insert the adapter into a free PCI slot, and restart the computer.)
Windows will detect the adapter and prompt you to install the driver on the included CD-ROM.
Trouble Shooting
Trouble shooting means to poke around a computers data system looking for things out of order.
A few steps to follow:
Consult your product vendors for support or your help desk representative.
Read the literature that came with the software or peripheral.
If you change something and it does not solve the problem change it back. You do not want to make your problems worse.
Take one step at a time and document everything so you can undo everything if necessary.
Visit the vendors website to see if there is any information on that product and how to trouble shoot problems with it, apply any patch available to resolve your problem. With Microsoft products most times you can install a service pack or patch and your problems will be resolved.
Wireless Security
Disadvantage-It is easier for a hacker to access a network that is wireless than a network that is cabled.
Solution-WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) encrypts data sent over a wireless network. To gain access you must know the network name (SSID) and have a password for the network. The SSID and passwords are usually changed.
More advanced system is WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) which provides individual users authentication as well more secure encryption. Note only effective if support is built into the operating system (Windows XP), anything earlier is not compatible.