A wireless local area network (WLAN) provides wireless network communication over short distances using radio or infrared signals instead of traditional network cabling. A WLAN can be built using any of several different wireless network protocols, most commonly Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
WLAN (+) & (-)
| (+) | (-) |
| Supports a large number of devices. | It's easier to hack a WLAN, which is why encryption is necessary. |
| Setting up a WLAN is easier than laying cables for wired networks. | Wireless interference can hijack the speed and stability of a wireless network. |
| Accessing a WLAN is easier than a wired LAN, cable length isn't a factor. | More wireless devices, like repeaters, are needed to expand a wireless network. |
| WLANs are common outside of businesses and homes, like in public areas. |
Wireless LANs can contain many types of devices, including:
- Mobile phones
- Laptop and tablet computers
- Internet audio systems
- Gaming consoles
- Other internet-enabled home appliances and devices
WLAN connections work using radio transmitters and receivers built into client devices. Wireless networks don't require cables, but several special-purpose devices (also possessing their own radios and receiver antennas) are usually used to build them.
Some wireless LANs extend an existing wired network. This type of WLAN is built by attaching an access point to the edge of the wired network and setting up the AP to work in bridging mode. Clients communicate with the access point through the wireless link and can reach the Ethernet network through the AP bridge connection.