Wireless WAN, Wireless Network technology that can connect device or Local Area Network (LAN) in an area that is more spacious using various cellular technology like GSM, CDMA, LTE and 5G
Wireless WAN Definition
WWAN stands for Wireless Wide Area Network. A Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN) is a wireless network that connects devices or local area networks (LANs) across a large geographical area without the use of cables. WWANs utilize cellular network technology to provide data connectivity over a wider area than WLANs. Unlike WLANs and WPANs, which have shorter ranges, WWANs are suitable for areas with expansive geography.
WLANs and WPANs are commonly used in simple technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. WWANs, on the other hand, typically employ cellular technologies such as GSM, CDMA, or LTE to connect devices. The cellular network technologies used in WWANs include GSM, CDMA, 3G (third generation), 4G (fourth generation), LTE, and 5G (fifth generation). These technologies connect devices over long distances to cellular network operators, enabling internet access and communication services in areas beyond the reach of traditional cable networks.
The primary advantage of a WWAN is mobility. Users can maintain internet connectivity and make calls while traveling, as long as they are within network range. Unlike WLANs and WPANs, which require dedicated hardware and network infrastructure, WWANs are widely available and accessible on various devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets. This makes WWANs ideal for users who need to stay connected while traveling or working remotely.
Wireless WAN Functions
Wireless WANs perform several important functions in the world of wireless connectivity:
- Wide Area Internet Access: WWANs provide extensive internet access from various locations, including remote areas, outside cities, and places inaccessible by traditional cables.
- Long-Distance Connectivity: WWANs connect users and devices over long distances, which is crucial in situations where cable network connections are impractical or impossible, such as while traveling in remote areas.
- Mobility: WWANs offer high mobility, allowing users to connect to networks and the internet without needing wired or physical infrastructure. This enables users to move freely and stay connected in various locations.
These functions provide flexibility, mobility, and wide-ranging connectivity, allowing users to stay connected and access information anytime, anywhere.
How Wireless WANs Work
Wireless WANs use wireless technology to provide network connectivity over a wide area. The process involves:
- Wireless Technology: WWANs utilize wireless technologies like cellular, Wi-Fi, or satellite to transmit data wirelessly between devices and the network.
- Data Delivery: Data is delivered via radio waves or signals to receiver antennas connected to a service provider’s network. These wireless signals are transmitted over specific frequencies, such as radio frequencies or cellular spectrum.
- Access Point: On the user side, devices like routers or wireless modems act as access points, connecting users to the WWAN. These devices receive wireless signals from the service provider and deliver the data to users.
- Network Infrastructure: WWANs rely on a vast infrastructure, including transmitters, antennas, and base stations strategically located to provide wide coverage. This infrastructure transmits and receives wireless signals over a broad range, effectively connecting user devices to the network.
- Service Provider: WWANs are typically provided by network service providers, such as telecommunication companies or cellular operators. They offer access to their networks using wireless technologies like cellular networks (3G, 4G, 5G) or satellite networks, offering service packages with varying speeds, coverage, and capacity.
- Security: Security is crucial in WWANs to protect data transmitted across the network. Technologies like data encryption and security protocols are used to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of information.
Through this process, WWANs enable users to connect to networks and access internet services from various locations, whether stationary or mobile.
Pros and Cons of Wireless WANs
Pros:
- High Mobility: WWANs provide wireless connectivity over a wide area, enabling users to connect to the network and access the internet from virtually anywhere. This facilitates high mobility and easy access, even in areas without wired network infrastructure.
- Scalability: WWANs allow for easier and faster network additions and expansion compared to traditional wired infrastructure, providing flexibility to increase network capacity as needed.
- Wide Coverage: WWANs utilize wireless technologies that can cover vast areas. Strategically placed infrastructure allows wireless signals to reach a larger area than traditional wired networks.
Cons:
- Speed and Bandwidth Limitations: WWANs typically have lower speeds and bandwidth capacities compared to wired connections. This can impact performance and data transfer rates, especially with multiple users or high network loads.
- Signal Dependency: WWANs are highly dependent on the strength and quality of the wireless signal. Factors like distance, physical barriers, and electromagnetic interference can affect connection quality and stability, potentially causing signal loss or degradation.
- Security: Wireless network security is a concern. Wireless technologies are vulnerable to attacks and unauthorized access. Wireless connections can also be targets for monitoring and data interception. Implementing robust security measures, such as strong security protocols and data encryption, is essential.
Types of Wireless WANs
Common types of WWANs include:
- Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity): Wi-Fi is a wireless technology using radio waves to connect devices to the internet or local networks. It’s the most common type of WWAN, widely used in homes, offices, and public spaces.
- WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access): WiMAX is a high-speed wireless technology providing long-distance internet connectivity. It operates at higher radio frequencies and covers a wider area than traditional Wi-Fi.
- 3G (Third Generation): 3G mobile telecommunications standards support high-speed data services, including wireless internet access, commonly used in smartphones and tablets.
- 4G (Fourth Generation): 4G mobile telecommunication standards offer faster internet speeds than 3G, enhancing video streaming, online gaming, and other data-intensive applications.
- 5G (Fifth Generation): 5G is the latest generation of mobile telecommunications technology, promising ultra-high internet speeds, low latency, and greater capacity, enabling advanced technologies like IoT, AR, and VR.
- Satellite Internet: Satellite internet uses communication satellites to provide internet connectivity in remote areas where wired or other wireless infrastructure is limited.
- Cellular Networks: Besides 3G, 4G, and 5G, other cellular networks like CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) and GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) provide wireless connectivity for mobile devices.
Each type of WWAN has its own advantages and limitations. The best choice depends on specific requirements like speed, coverage, and infrastructure availability.
Conclusion
Wireless WANs connect devices and LANs wirelessly over wide areas using cellular technologies like GSM, CDMA, LTE, and 5G. Unlike WLANs and WPANs, which cover smaller areas using technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, WWANs offer high mobility, wide coverage, and internet access in remote locations. However, WWANs may have lower speeds and are dependent on signal strength. Security is also a concern that must be addressed through security protocols and data encryption.
For those interested in learning more about Wireless WANs and other network technologies, Telkom University offers comprehensive programs in this field. Consider enrolling to advance your career in the dynamic world of network technology. Visit the Private Campus in Jakarta for more information and registration. Don’t miss this opportunity to become an expert in wireless networking!
References
https://inseego.com/resources/5g-glossary/what-is-wwan/
Author : Hassan Rizky Putra Sailellah | Editor : Meilina Eka Ayuningtyas
Tags : Kampus Swasta Terbaik di Indonesia | Kampus Swasta di Jakarta | Kampus Swasta di Bandung | Kampus Swasta Terbaik | Kampus Swasta di Surabaya | Universitas Swasta Terbaik di Indonesia | Universitas Swasta di Jakarta | Universitas Swasta di Bandung | Universitas Swasta di Surabaya | Universitas Swasta Terbaik di Jakarta | PTS Terbaik di Indonesia | Universitas Swasta Terbaik | Universitas Terbaik di Bandung
