Tech insider: Wireless LANs

Wireless LANs can provide network flexibility and end user mobility. But first you must decide which flavor of 802.11 technology to select. This package of stories will spell out the options as well as take a look at security concerns and what pieces of the puzzle you'll need to complete your network.

The ABGs of wireless LANs
First came 802.11b wireless LAN devices a couple of years ago. Then 802.11a gear hit the market this year. And 802.11g products are slated to ship next year. As if that isn't confusing enough, 802.11b and 802.11a are incompatible, while 802.11g will be compatible with 802.11b, but not 802.11a. So let's sort it all out.
- Interoperability action plan

Technology tussle
The three wireless standards (801.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g) duke it out for technical superiority.

802.11 insecurity
Security is still the main problem holding back deployment of all 802.11 products. Many efforts are being made to solve the security issue, including encryption enhancements, VPN, authentication and the IEEE 802.11i standard.

See also:

Buying wireless wares
Aggressive pricing and new technology strengthen your hand in bargaining for wireless LAN gear. Network World, 05/20/02.

Audio primer: Wireless LANs
Wireless LANs can make it easy to support a roving workforce, but pitfalls abound. In this 8-minute primer we take a look how wireless LANs are setup, the challenges involved and the varied specifications underlying the technology. Network World Fusion.

Hurwicz is a freelance writer in Eastsound, Wash. He can be reached at michael@hurwicz.com.