How Does Wireless Networking Work?
Summary: In essence, wireless networks are similar to normal networks with the only difference being its wireless (cable free) construction. In order for a wireless networking to work, you will have to have all your computers fitted with wireless network adapters. Although there are several limitations to wireless networks, they can provide you with convenience and wireless networks can be especially convenient to use in homes and in small networks.
Connecting computers through a network is a revolutionary process that allows you to exchange information and data between various computers that are connected over the network. Hence a file that you are working on will be used by any other computer that is connected to the network. In addition, you can share your Internet connection over the Network, so that each computer can have an Internet connection. Wireless networking takes this a one step further as it allows you to connect computers to each other without a computer network wire (cable) to connect them to each other. This is a great method as you can create a network of computers without drilling holes through walls or without using cables that run all over the floor.
Of course, the question of how does the wireless networking work is a complex one. In principle, wireless networking works in the same way as a network that works with cables. You will need a device that acts as a Hub or a Switch to interchange the signals and you will need a device that can access the wireless signals that are generated by the computer’s wireless networking cards.
Some Components of a Wireless Networking
- A wireless network interface card (wireless NIC) for each computer that will be connected to the wireless network. (Wireless NIC s will be PCI in nature for Pc’s and most notebook computers will come with an internally equipped wireless network adapter.
- Wireless Access Point for the Wireless Signal
- Gateway Router Switch
- ADSL/ ISDN/ VDSL Modem for Internet Connection
Wireless Networking Principles
In general, wireless networking works with a same principle but without the cables. Each computer that is to be connected to the wireless network must have either a PCI Wireless Network card or a USB External Wireless Card. (In the case of notebook computers, there will either be an internal wireless network adapter or a PCMCIA Wireless Network adapter.
Once all computers have been fitted with a wireless network card, then they will start receiving or transmitting wireless network signals and they will become part of a Wi – Fi (Wireless Fidelity) System. However in order to integrate them and synchronize them in to a network, they must have a central Wireless Access Point that will allow them to access the network. A wireless access point can be working in tandem with a router that allows them to interchange their data easily. However there is some new equipment that functions as a router and a wireless access point at the same time.
Of course, if you want to connect to Internet, then you will need to have an appropriate modem that is also connected to your network to the router. (ADSL / ISDN / VDSL/ Cable Modem depending on your internet connection line). If your wireless network is to be a small one, then it might be appropriate for you to buy one of the newer generation ADSL Modems that come with a built in wireless access point and a router. Hence all you have to do will be to buy one of these newer generation modems and connect it to your Internet line. You will need no further devices and your wireless system will be up and running in no time. This is especially appropriate for small wireless home networks with 2 to 5 computers. This way you will not have to drill through walls to install computer cables.
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Wireless Networking and Accessories
Limitations of Wireless Networks
When you ask about how does wireless networking works, then you will also have to over see the limitations of wireless networks.
- Most Wireless networks will work within a radius of 50 to
- If the surrounding area has too much bricks or leaded concrete or metallic walls, then the wireless network may not function properly or the working radius may be reduced considerably.
- If the area within where the wireless networks have other wireless equipment or electronic equipment then the operation of the wireless network may be faulted and there may be interference. Especially if you have some older style microwave devices then they will most probably interfere with your wireless devices.
- There are security issues as wireless signals can not be shielded easily and hence they can be hacked very easily. You will need to use special password protection to protect your wireless network.