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How does it work?
Wireless connectivity uses radio frequencies to
communicate. Without the use of normal network
cables wireless users have the freedom of
movement within the signal area. Additionally,
public wireless areas (called "hot spots") are
becoming more common, which means you can easily
find internet access away from your home
network. Wireless is an excellent solution when
installing cable is not an option.
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What equipment is needed?
In order for wireless communication to take
place, two things are needed: a wireless adapter
(for the PC) and a wireless access point or
wireless router (connected to an existing wired
network). Most common devices can be configured
for wireless use, including PC's, laptops,
printers, and PDA's.
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How do you protect/secure it?
Wireless signals are just like radio waves --
anyone who has the right equipment can listen.
Without taking the necessary precautions, a
wireless network faces threats from intrusion,
interception, and SSID broadcasts.
Intrusion (more)
When an undesired device establishes a
connection with your network. Not only
does it give them a "free" connection to
the internet, but it also exposes your
resources to attack and data theft.
Intrusion is prevented by using MAC
filtering and network keys.
Interception (more)
A wireless signal can be caught by
anyone with the right equipment.
This creates the possibility that
your transmission could fall into
the wrong hands and could lead to
identity theft or exposure of
sensitive data. Interception is
prevented with the use of data
encryption.
SSID Broadcast (more)
SSID is the name given to your
wireless network, and when
broadcast, it can be visible to
anyone looking for a wireless
signal. By disabling this feature,
you prevent eavesdroppers from
knowing what network is yours.
Although this doesn't necessarily
prevent intrusion, it is a simple
way of disguising your presence.
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What are the limitations?
Wireless networks are inherently limited by their
range and bandwidth. There are currently three
mainstream and commonly used specifications
listed under 802.11:
802.11a
Max bandwidth: 54 Mbps (fastest)
Frequency: 5 GHz (worst range)
Not used
for most applications because of it's limited
range. However, it's high bandwidth is popular
and can be used efficiently at small distances.
802.11b
Max bandwidth: 11 Mbps (slowest)
Frequency: 2.4 GHz (best range)
Common
because it is more affordable than 802.11b and
because the lower frequency range allows for
less signal obstruction. However, it's speed is
less desirable and the signal can only hold a
limited amount of simultaneous connections.
802.11g
Max bandwidth: 54 Mbps (fastest)
Frequency: 2.4 GHz (best range)
The
most used of the 802.11 specifications because
of it's range and speed. Meant to be a
combination of both 802.11a and 802.11b, it is
also compatible with 802.11b since they use the
same frequency range.
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