Understanding wireless networking requires a basic understanding of networking in general as well an understanding of major terms before you can begin. Once you have this basic understanding in place then you will be able to move into configuration of network cards, wireless access points or wireless routers.

Basic Networking

The Basic Networking section is designed to provide you with an outline of how networks function so that you can understand terms and concepts. Network is a term used to describe how computers are connected. Connections usually is determined by the size and type of network. A single computer offers powerful options in terms of applications, processing, storage, printing and enjoyment. By connecting many computers together using a network, resources of many computers and peripherals multiplies the abilities of that single computer. The purpose of any network is to share information or resources like printers, databases, etc.

Networks can be as simple as two computers connected using a single network cable or as complex as a wide area network connected with wireless technology.

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LAN - Local Area Network

A LAN is limited to a specific local area, like a building. This means that the workstations, servers and cabling are all local. A LAN can be a large building that has a number of wireless access points throughout the building. A LAN can also be a home with one wireless access point with several laptops attached. Most LANs are connected to a WAN (Wide Area Network), like the Internet. This is the goal of a LAN, to access the Internet and other computers on the Internet. A WAN is a larger network, the Internet is the best example.

WAN - Wide Area Network

A WAN covers a large area that often will extend across local, regional and national borders. The Internet is an example of a WAN which covers the globe. In addition to the distance that it covers, a WAN also uses a great deal of public transports (like the phone system) to carry signals. WANs can be completely private however. The speed of a WAN is usually slower because of distance and the use of the public transports which have a great variety of equipment quality.

Not only is important to understand basic network size and connections, it is also helpful to understand basic information on how networks make connections with other computers. These connections are created by implementing standards that all networking must adhere to. A brief outline of some of that information follows.