Basics of Wireless Networks
1. Introduction to Wireless Networks
Wireless networks use radio waves to connect devices such as laptops, smartphones, and
tablets to the internet and other networks without the need for physical cables. They enable
mobility and flexibility, allowing devices to connect from various locations.
2. Types of Wireless Networks
2.1. Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
Description: A network that allows devices to connect and communicate wirelessly
within a limited area such as a home, school, or office.
Example: Wi-Fi networks in homes and businesses.
2.2. Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN)
Description: A network for interconnecting devices within the reach of an individual
person, typically within a range of a few meters.
Example: Bluetooth connections between smartphones, headphones, and
smartwatches.
2.3. Wireless Metropolitan Area Network (WMAN)
Description: A network that spans a larger area than WLANs, such as a city or a
large campus.
Example: WiMAX networks providing broadband internet access in urban areas.
2.4. Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)
Description: A network that provides wireless connectivity over large geographic
areas, often using cellular technology.
Example: Cellular networks 3G, 4G, 5G.
2.5. Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks (VANETs)
Description: A network where vehicles communicate with each other and with
roadside infrastructure to improve traffic management and safety.
Example: Vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication systems that provide collision
warnings and traffic information.
2.6. Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs)
Description: Networks of spatially distributed autonomous sensors that monitor
physical or environmental conditions and cooperatively pass their data through the
network.
Example: Environmental monitoring systems that track temperature, humidity, and
pollution levels.
2.7. Mobile Ad-hoc Networks (MANETs)
Description: A self-configuring network of mobile devices connected without any
fixed infrastructure.
Example: Temporary networks set up for disaster recovery operations where
traditional network infrastructure is unavailable.
2.8. Smart Grid Networks
Description: Communication networks used in smart grids to enable bidirectional
flow of data between utilities and consumers.
Example: Networks that connect smart meters, substations, and other grid
components to optimize electricity distribution.
2.9. Internet of Things (IoT) Networks
Description: Networks of interconnected devices that communicate over the internet
and can be managed remotely.
Example: Smart home systems where appliances, lights, and security systems are
controlled via a central hub or smartphone app.
3. Key Components of Wireless Networks
Access Points (APs): Devices that allow wireless devices to connect to a wired
network using Wi-Fi.
Routers: Forward data between networks, often integrating access points for Wi-Fi.
Wireless Adapters: Hardware within devices (laptops, smartphones) that enables
wireless connectivity.
Antennas: Used to transmit and receive radio waves.
4. Wireless Network Standards
IEEE 802.11: The family of standards for wireless LANs, including
802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax.
Bluetooth: A standard for short-range WPANs.
WiMAX: Standard for WMANs.
Cellular Standards: Include GSM, CDMA, LTE, and 5G.
Mobility Management in Wireless Networks
Mobility management ensures seamless connectivity and service continuity for mobile users
as they move between different network areas or cells. It handles the tracking and
maintaining of the user's connection as they move.
1. Key Components of Mobility Management
Handover (Handoff): The process of transferring an active connection from one cell
or network to another. There are two main types:
o Horizontal Handover: Between two access points or cells within the same
technology (e.g., Wi-Fi to Wi-Fi).
o Vertical Handover: Between different technologies (e.g., Wi-Fi to cellular).
Location Management: Keeps track of the mobile device's location to deliver
incoming calls and data. It includes:
o Location Update: The mobile device periodically informs the network of its
current location.
o Paging: The network searches for the device to deliver calls or data when the
exact location is unknown.
2. Protocols and Techniques for Mobility Management
Mobile IP: Allows mobile devices to move across different networks while
maintaining a permanent IP address.
Session Initiation Protocol (SIP): Manages multimedia communication sessions,
enabling seamless service during handover.
Fast Handover Protocols: Minimize disruption during handover, such as IEEE
802.11r for Wi-Fi.
3. Challenges in Mobility Management
Latency: Delay during handover can affect real-time applications.
Security: Ensuring secure handover and data transfer.
Quality of Service (QoS): Maintaining consistent service quality during mobility.
Interference and Coverage: Ensuring adequate coverage and minimizing
interference between cells.
