Wednesday 11 April 2012

Project 11: Wireless Routers

1. What are wireless routers?
        Wireless routers are is a device that enables more than one computer connect to the internet via wireless signals or a wired connection. They're called "routers" because they route internet connections back and forth between computers and the connected modem.

2. What are the different wireless standards? How are they different?
         There are four wireless standards used: PAN, LAN, MAN, and WAN. Each are different types of standards characterized mainly by their signal range, speed, and function.
          PAN (Personal Area Network): PAN is a short ranged wireless standard used for connecting devices directly via peer-to-peer. PAN includes Bluetooth connectivity. Range is usually within a few meters. Speed is usually less than 1Mbps.
         LAN (Local Area Network): LAN is a standard used for keeping devices connected to a network within a medium range. LAN is the basic service standard because LAN and WLAN are most commonly referred to for connecting devices to the internet via router and modem. Speed varies between 11 and 54 Mbps.
          MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): MAN is a medium to long range standard that eliminates cords and fixed modems by utilizing broadband internet service. A fixed or accessory antenna that is connected to a computer sends and receives signals from service provider towers. MAN services are commonly available to consumers subscribed to service providers like telecommunication companies. Speeds vary around the 100 Mbps mark.
         WAN (Wide Area Network): WAN is a long range standard most commonly used by mobile devices like cell phones or wireless hotspot routers. WAN is the standard for 3G, EDGE, and cellular device networks. Speeds are faster than 10 Kbps.

No comments:

Post a Comment