Wireless Network Standards - CompTIA A+ 220-1101 - 2.3

Summary

This script offers an in-depth look into the evolution of wireless networking standards, starting from 802.11a/b to the latest 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). It explains the differences in frequency bands, speeds, and technologies like MIMO used in these standards. It also touches on the practical aspects of setting up long-range networks, the challenges of interference, and the importance of adhering to regulations. Additionally, it covers RFID and NFC technologies, highlighting their applications in various settings.

Takeaways

• 📡 Wireless networks are now expected in many public places like restaurants and conference rooms, and they are standardized by the IEEE 802.11 committee.
• 🌐 The term 'Wi-Fi' is a trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance, which tests the interoperability of wireless devices.
• 🔋 802.11a was the first wireless standard released in 1999, operating at 54 Mbps in the 5 GHz frequency range, but has less range than 2.4 GHz networks.
• 📶 802.11b, released around the same time as 802.11a, operates at 11 Mbps in the 2.4 GHz range, offering greater range but is susceptible to interference from other devices.
• 🚀 802.11g, released in 2003, is an upgrade to 802.11b, increasing speed to 54 Mbps while maintaining compatibility and operating in the 2.4 GHz range.
• 🔄 802.11n, also known as Wi-Fi 4, was introduced in 2009 and can operate at both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, with a maximum theoretical throughput of 600 Mbps.
• 🌟 802.11ac, or Wi-Fi 5, introduced in 2014, operates only in the 5 GHz range, supports up to 160 MHz channel bandwidth, and can achieve nearly 7 Gbps throughput.
• 🔋 802.11ax, or Wi-Fi 6, released in 2021, operates in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies and introduces OFDMA to improve efficiency in crowded areas.
• 📈 The progression of Wi-Fi standards has led to significant increases in speed and efficiency, with Wi-Fi 6 offering up to 9.6 Gbps theoretical throughput.
• 🏢 When setting up long-range wireless networks, such as connecting buildings, it's important to consider the use of directional antennas and local regulations.
• ⚠️ Safety and regulatory compliance are crucial when installing external antennas, and professional expertise may be necessary for proper setup.
• 🆔 RFID and NFC technologies are widely used for identification and communication purposes, extending to mobile devices for contactless payments and access control.

Q & A

What is the IEEE 802 committee responsible for?

The IEEE 802 committee is responsible for the standards of local area networks (LAN) and metropolitan area networks (MAN), including the wireless networking part, which is the 802.11 standard.

What does Wi-Fi stand for and who is responsible for its trademark?

Wi-Fi stands for 'Wireless Fidelity' and the trademark is held by the Wi-Fi Alliance, which is responsible for testing the interoperability of different wireless devices.

When was the 802.11a wireless standard released and what is its main frequency range?

The 802.11a wireless standard was released in October of 1999 and it operates exclusively in the five gigahertz frequency range.

What is the maximum speed of the 802.11a standard and why might it not be commonly used today?

The 802.11a standard operates at 54 megabits per second. It may not be commonly used today because it has been largely replaced by faster and more advanced standards.

How does the 802.11b standard differ from 802.11a in terms of frequency and speed?

The 802.11b standard operates in the 2.4 gigahertz range and has a maximum speed of 11 megabits per second, which is slower than the 54 megabits per second of the 802.11a standard.

What is the advantage of using the 2.4 gigahertz frequency range as used by 802.11b?

The 2.4 gigahertz frequency range tends to bounce off of devices rather than being absorbed, which can result in a longer range for 802.11b networks compared to higher frequencies.

What is the 802.11g standard and how does it relate to 802.11b?

The 802.11g standard was released in June 2003 and operates in the 2.4 gigahertz range like 802.11b. It is an upgrade that increases the speed to 54 megabits per second and is backwards compatible with 802.11b devices.

What is the difference between 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4) and its predecessors in terms of frequency and bandwidth?

802.11n (Wi-Fi 4) can operate at both five gigahertz and 2.4 gigahertz frequencies and supports wider channel widths of up to 40 megahertz, allowing for more data transfer compared to 802.11a, b, and g.

What is MIMO and how does it improve wireless network performance?

MIMO stands for Multiple Input Multiple Output. It is a form of communication that allows devices to transfer much more information simultaneously between the end station and the access point, improving wireless network performance.

What are the main differences between 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) and 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4)?

802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) operates exclusively in the 5 gigahertz range and supports up to 160 megahertz of channel bandwidth, as well as multi-user MIMO, resulting in a maximum theoretical throughput of nearly seven gigabits per second, which is an improvement over 802.11n.

What is the main focus of the 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) standard and how does it address the issue of crowded wireless networks?

The 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) standard focuses on improving performance in crowded environments by introducing OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), which allows for more efficient communication in areas with a large number of users.