Types of Wireless Connections
There are several types of wireless connections used for computer networks, including a wireless PAN (personal area network) and a wireless LAN (local area network). Other types are wireless MAN (metropolitan area networks), wireless WAN (wide area networks) and mobile device networks.
A wireless PAN connects devices within a small area, usually within a single person's reach. Some examples of this are infrared light and Bluetooth radio which connect a headset to a laptop or a computer to a laser printer. This type of wireless network connection is becoming more popular as equipment designers are integrating Wi-Fi into their devices. Wi-Fi capabilities in the Windows 7 operating system and Intel products make it easier to set up and configure a PAN.
A wireless LAN links two or more electronic devices using a distribution method with an access point to the Internet. Technology allows users to have mobility and still remain connected while they are in a local coverage area. Examples of a wireless LAN include Wi-Fi and fixed wireless data that connects networks in buildings without using a wired link.
The wireless MAN connects wireless LANs with a geographic scope that falls between a LAN and a WAN. These types of networks provide connectivity to the Internet and other wide area networks for LANs in a metropolitan area. A metropolitan area network is optimized for a large geographical area and ranges from several blocks of buildings to whole cities. MANs might be owned and operated by one organization yet used by many individuals and groups. Some are operated and owned as public utilities.
Another wireless network is the WAN. This wide area network covers large outdoor areas, such as connecting branch offices of businesses or public internet access systems. A typical WAN consists of access points, bridging relays and base station gateways. When a WAN is combined with renewable energy systems like wind systems or solar panels, it acts as a stand-alone system.
Mobile device networks are used for mobile telecommunications. With the development of new smartphone technologies, cellular telephone networks carry data like text messages and emails as well as telephone conversations. The Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network is the most common method of mobile device networks and used for a majority of cellular phones. Others include Personal Communication Services (PCS), a radio band used in South Asia and North America and an older system, Digital Advanced Mobile Phone Service (D-AMPS) that is being phased out due to advancements in technology.