WLAN is a computer network that use wireless technology that connect device in limited area such as university, office, or public area. Utilizing radio waves, WLANs allow access without physical cables, facilitating mobility and flexibility in communicating and accessing the internet and shared resources. Learn more about the workings, advantages, and types of commonly used WLANs in this article.
Definiton of WLAN
Before entering the core discussion, we should recognize the meaning of WLAN. WLAN stands for Wireless LAN (Local Area Network). WLAN is a computer network that uses wireless technology via radio waves to connect computer devices in a limited area, such as in a building, campus, or certain public areas. In WLANs, data is sent in the form of packets, which contain layers with labels and instructions along with MAC (Media Access Control) addresses that function to route packets to the intended location. Utilizing radio waves, WLANs allow access without physical cables, facilitating mobility and flexibility in communicating and accessing the internet and shared resources. Learn more about the workings, advantages, and types of commonly used WLANs in this article.
In WLANs, data communication between devices is carried out via radio or infrared waves, without using physical cables as in traditional LAN networks. WLANs utilize devices such as access points, routers, and antennas to transmit wireless signals and allow devices on the network to communicate with each other.
The use of WLAN technology allows flexibility in accessing the network, so that computer devices can connect to the network wirelessly without being limited by physical cables. This allows users to move freely within the network coverage area without losing connection.
Function of WLAN
WLAN has many function, among others:
Network Access
The main function of a WLAN is to provide access to a wireless computer network. Users can connect to the LAN network wirelessly without using physical cables. This allows more flexible access and higher mobility, so users can move freely within the WLAN coverage area and stay connected to the network.
Various Resources
WLAN allows users to share resources such as printers, scanners, and files efficiently. Users can print documents from their wireless devices directly to printers connected to the WLAN network without having to connect with physical cables.
Internet Access
With a WLAN, users can access the internet wirelessly. The WLAN can connect to a gateway or router that is connected to an internet source, so users can surf the web, send emails, and use other online applications via a wireless connection.
VoIP Communication
WLAN supports Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services that allow users to make voice calls over an IP network. With WLAN, users can make voice calls over a wireless connection without using traditional telephone lines.
Mobile Application
WLAN allows users to use mobile applications that require a network connection. Users can use chat, social media, video streaming, and other applications wirelessly via WLAN.
These functions make WLAN a popular and widely used solution in various environments, ranging from households, offices, schools, to public areas such as airports, cafes and shopping centers.
How WLAN Works
WLANs work by using radio frequency technology to transmit data wirelessly between devices connected to the network. Here are the general steps in how a WLAN works:
Access Point (AP) Setup
First, an access point (AP) or wireless router is set up and configured to form a WLAN network. The AP acts as the communication center in the network and serves to connect wireless devices to the wired network.
SSID Configuration
SSID (Service Set Identifier) is the name of the WLAN network given to identify the network. The use of a unique SSID allows devices to distinguish and connect to the desired network. This SSID is configured on the AP.
Wireless Device Connection
Users who want to connect to a WLAN network will enable the wireless feature on their devices, such as laptops, smartphones, or tablets. These devices will display a list of SSIDs available within their range. Users select the appropriate SSID and enter a password if required.
Authentication and Association
After selecting the SSID, the user device will send a connection request to the AP. The AP will process the request and perform an authentication process to verify the identity of the user device. After successful authentication, the device will be connected to the WLAN network and assigned an IP address.
Sending and Receiving Data
Once connected, user devices can send and receive data over the WLAN network. The transmitted data will be converted into radio frequency signals and transmitted over the wireless communication channel to the AP. The AP will forward the data to the intended destination in the network.
Roaming
If a user moves from one area to another with different APs, a process called “roaming” will occur. The user’s device will automatically search for a new AP with a stronger signal and reconnect to the new AP without losing the connection.
Security
WLAN network security is important to protect data and prevent unauthorized access. The use of security protocols such as WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) or WPA3 ensures data encryption and requires additional authentication to connect to the WLAN network.
How WLANs work can vary depending on the configuration and type of equipment used, but the basic principles above explain how wireless devices connect and communicate over a WLAN network.
WLAN Security
In terms of security, WLANs are easier to hack than physical networks. A way to solve this security problem is to use MAC address filters to block unauthorized devices.
To increase security, a commonly used method on WLANs is data encryption, including protocols such as Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA). Currently, WPA2 is the preferred authentication standard for protecting WLAN networks from unauthorized access.
Pros and Cons of WLAN
Pros of WLAN
Affordability and Mobility
WLAN allows users to connect to the network without physical cables, providing greater flexibility and mobility. Users can access the network from various locations within the WLAN signal range, making remote work, meetings, or team collaboration easier.
Cable Reduction
The use of WLAN eliminates the need to install complex and expensive physical network cables. This reduces costs and complexity in network deployment, especially in environments where it is difficult to connect cables, such as old buildings or open areas.
Scalability
WLAN can be easily expanded or upgraded as needed. By adding additional access points, the WLAN signal range can be extended or higher user capacity can be accommodated. This provides better scalability compared to a physical wired network that requires excavation and additional cabling.
Cons of WLAN
Limited Coverage
WLAN signals have limited range compared to wired networks. Factors such as walls, electronic equipment, or other environmental interference can affect the range and stability of a WLAN signal. Therefore, in large environments or with many physical obstacles, it may be necessary to use multiple access points to cover the entire area with adequate signal.
Signal Interferrance
WLANs use the public radio spectrum, which means that WLAN signals can experience interference from other electronic devices using the same or nearby frequencies. Signal interference can cause network quality degradation and reduced throughput.
Security
WLANs are vulnerable to security attacks such as network intrusion, hacking, or identity theft. Without proper security measures, such as data encryption and proper access settings, WLANs can be vulnerable to attacks that can result in data leaks or network vulnerabilities.
Types of Wireless LAN
The following are several types of Wireless LAN (WLAN) that are commonly used:
Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11)
Wi-Fi is the most popular and widely used WLAN standard. This standard has several variations, such as 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, and 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). Each variation has different speeds and ranges.
Bluetooth
Although Bluetooth is typically used to wirelessly connect devices such as headsets, mice, or keyboards to other devices, it can also be used to create simple ad hoc WLAN networks.
Zigbee
Zigbee is a wireless protocol designed for Internet of Things (IoT) applications that require low power, short range, and reliable connectivity. It is typically used in smart home settings or industrial applications.
NFC (Near Field Communication)
NFC is a wireless communication technology that allows data exchange at very short distances (usually within a few centimeters). NFC is often used for digital payments or information exchange between electronic devices.
WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access)
WiMAX is a high-speed wireless networking technology used to provide Internet access over large areas. It is often used as an alternative to cable or DSL broadband connections.
Each type of WLAN has different advantages, limitations, and uses, depending on the needs and usage environment.
Examples of Applicating WLAN Network Technology
The following are examples of the application of WLAN network technology in various locations, including:
Household
Many contemporary homes utilize WLANs to connect a variety of devices such as laptops, smartphones, smart TVs, and IoT devices to a single wireless network. WLANs allow family members to access the internet and share resources such as printers without the need for physical cables.
Office
In the workplace, WLAN is used to provide internet connectivity for multiple devices such as desktop computers, laptops, and printers spread across multiple rooms. Employees can work mobile and stay connected to the company system without being tied down by network cables.
University
University campuses often use WLANs to provide Internet access for students, faculty, and staff across multiple buildings and campus areas. This allows access to academic resources, digital libraries, and other online services from anywhere on campus.
Public Area
Many public places such as cafes, restaurants, airports, and shopping malls provide free WLAN services to their visitors. This allows users to surf the internet, access social media, or do remote work without using their mobile data.
Industry and Factory
In industrial environments, WLANs are used to connect IoT devices, sensors, and automation systems spread across a facility. This enables efficient remote monitoring and control, increasing productivity and operational efficiency.
Lodging
Hotels often provide WLAN access to their guests as part of their stay. This allows guests to stay connected, explore local information, or work during their visit.
The use of WLAN offers flexibility, mobility and easy access to information and services in various environments, which is increasingly necessary in today’s digital era.
Conclusion
WLAN is a computer networking technology that uses radio waves to connect devices in a limited area such as a household, office, campus, and public places. By allowing access without physical cables, WLAN provides high flexibility and mobility for users to communicate, access the internet, and share resources. Security is a major concern with the use of techniques such as WPA2 encryption to protect data from unauthorized access. Different types of WLANs such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Zigbee offer solutions that suit a variety of needs from households to industrial environments.
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References
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wireless_LAN
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
