<networking> (WLAN /W-lan/, or "LAWN" /lorn/, sometimes
"WiLAN" /wi-lan/) A communication system that transmits and
receives data using modulated electromagnetic waves,
implemented as an extension to, or as an alternative for, a
wired LAN. WLANs are typically found within a small
client node-dense locale (e.g. a campus or office
building), or anywhere a traditional network cannot be
deployed for logistical reasons.
Benefits include user mobility in the coverage area, speed and
simplicity of physical setup, and scalability. Being a
military spin-off, WLANs also provide security features such
as encryption, frequency hopping, and firewalls. Some
of these are intrinsic to the protocol, making WLANs at
least as secure as wired networks, and usually more so. The
drawbacks are high initial cost (mostly hardware), limited
range, possibility of mutual interference, amd the need to
security-enable clients.
The established protocols are covered by IEEE 802.11. Recent developments
include the Bluetooth project and other WPAN, or Personal
Area Network initiatives, accessible through IEEE 802.15
working group.
