Lecture Notes: IEEE 802.11 What is IEEE 802.11? IEEE 802.11 is a family of standards for Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). It defines the physical and Medium Access Control (MAC) layers of the OSI model for wireless networks. Key Features of IEEE 802.11 ● Physical Layer: Specifies the physical characteristics of the wireless medium, such as frequency bands, modulation techniques, and transmission power. ● Medium Access Control (MAC) Layer: Manages access to the shared wireless medium, ensuring that multiple stations can communicate without interfering with each other. ● Security: Provides security features such as Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and WPA2 to protect wireless networks from unauthorized access. ● Quality of Service (QoS): Enables prioritization of different types of traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth. ● Roaming: Allows devices to seamlessly move between different access points within a wireless network. IEEE 802.11 Standards ● 802.11a: Operates in the 5 GHz frequency band and offers higher data rates than 802.11b/g. ● 802.11b: Operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band and offers a data rate of up to 11 Mbps. ● 802.11g: Operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band and offers a data rate of up to 54 Mbps. ● 802.11n: Offers higher data rates (up to 600 Mbps) and improved range compared to previous standards. ● 802.11ac: Operates in the 5 GHz frequency band and offers even higher data rates (up to 6.9 Gbps). ● 802.11ax: The latest standard, offering higher data rates, improved efficiency, and better performance in dense environments. Applications of IEEE 802.11 ● Home networks: Connecting computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices to the internet. ● Enterprise networks: Providing wireless connectivity for employees and guests in offices, schools, and other organizations. ● Public Wi-Fi: Providing internet access in public places, such as coffee shops, airports, and hotels. ● Internet of Things (IoT): Connecting IoT devices to the internet. Challenges and Considerations ● Interference: Wireless networks can be susceptible to interference from other electronic devices. ● Security: Wireless networks can be vulnerable to security attacks, such as unauthorized access and eavesdropping. ● Range: The range of a wireless network can be limited by factors such as obstacles, interference, and transmission power. Conclusion IEEE 802.11 is a fundamental standard for wireless networks, providing the foundation for a wide range of applications. By understanding the key features and standards of IEEE 802.11, individuals and organizations can design and implement effective wireless networks.