A new internet era has begun thanks to WLAN and WiFi, which have significantly changed many aspects of life. Online connections allow people to connect more easily. Occasionally, a WLAN connection is referred to as a local area wireless network. First off, there are some semantic distinctions at work, even though some people may conflate the terms “Wi-Fi” and “WLAN.” Understanding the WLAN security settings is necessary before adding new devices to the access point.
What Is a WLAN?
A wireless local area network (WLAN) is an approach to wirelessly distributing data between two or more devices. WLANs employ high-frequency radio waves and typically come with an Internet access point. With a WLAN, users can move around the coverage area—often a house or small office—while still staying connected to the network. A LAN is typically a network that is contained within a structure or campus and represents a functional or geographical construct that is typically connected by various types of cabling.
To connect two or more devices and create a local area network (LAN) within a constrained space, two or more devices must be connected by a WLAN. This includes places like a house, a school, a computer lab, a campus, or a workplace. Because of this, users can move around the area while still being connected to the network. A WLAN may additionally offer access to the global Internet via a gateway.
The most popular computer networks worldwide are wireless LANs built on IEEE 802.11 standards. The Wi-Fi Alliance owns the trademark Wi-Fi, which is the name that most people refer to these as. They create wireless networks in homes and small offices to connect laptops, printers, smartphones, Web TVs, and gaming equipment to the Internet. Customers can use portable wireless devices to access the internet through hotspots offered by routers at cafes, hotels, libraries, and airports.
Wireless networks do not just boost productivity and offer convenience; they also enable work to happen anywhere. They have the power to meet and redefine organizational objectives and methods—not just in offices but also in factories, hospitals, and classrooms.
How Does WLAN Work?
Wireless local area networks (WLANs) provide Internet access by sending data from one location to another via radio, infrared, or microwave transmission, eliminating the need for cables or other connections to be directly connected to your computer. A wireless LAN consists of nodes and access points.
An object with a network adapter and, in the case of WLANs, an antenna is a node. Examples include computers and peripherals (such as printers). Access points employ transmitters and receivers to conduct communications within a network or between networks of nodes. WLANs frequently have Internet access points and rely on radio connections rather than wires to link the nodes of their local networks.
In comparison to physical networks, WLANs are more susceptible to intrusion. A bad actor using a wired network would need to physically enter the network or breach an external firewall. A malicious user only needs to be in the network’s coverage area to access a WLAN.
The simplest way to secure a WLAN is to prevent unauthorized stations by using MAC addresses. Nevertheless, determined enemies might be able to join networks by impersonating a valid address.
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA), and WPA2 are the most popular encryption protocols for WLAN security, with WPA2 serving as the default authentication method. The network is safer overall because of this authorized entry.
Types of WLAN
#1. Infrastructure
The most typical WLAN type is infrastructure. Wireless devices must connect to the WAP (wireless access point) to access this type of WLAN, which operates in infrastructure mode. In other words, to join the WLAN, laptops, computers, and other devices must be within the WLAN’s coverage area and enter the proper credentials.
The client software will be in charge of deciding which WAP to connect to if a network has multiple wireless access points, which is a possibility.
A WLAN configured in infrastructure mode is a network that is located in a home or office. All of the endpoints link and communicate with one another via a base station, which might also offer internet access. The only elements required to set up a simple infrastructure WLAN are a wireless router, which serves as the base station for a WLAN, and endpoints, which can be computers, mobile devices, printers, and other devices. The wireless router typically serves as both the internet connection and the router.
#2. Ad hoc
Ad hoc networks are peer-to-peer networks that do not use a WAP and do not rely on any central server. Access to the peer-to-peer network enables wireless devices to communicate with one another. Then, the devices linked to one another via the WLAN can exchange data and information. Signal strength is not a reliable indicator of WLAN performance because the system will record the signal strength of the closest peer.
For an ad hoc WLAN, they need just two or more endpoints—such as computers or mobile devices—with built-in radio transmissions. One user starts the network after configuring it for ad hoc mode, at which point they become visible to the other users.
#3. Bridge
Bridges link networks together. Devices linked to a wired Ethernet network can join a wireless network using wireless Ethernet bridges.
#4. Wireless Distribution System
An IEEE 802.11 network’s access points can wirelessly connect thanks to WDS, or wireless distribution systems. With the aid of wireless distribution systems, the network can grow by supporting more access points without needing a supporting wired infrastructure.
The main benefit of using WDS is the preservation of data packet MAC addresses across access points.
Advantages of WLANs
The fact that devices can connect wirelessly and do not require cables is the WLAN’s most obvious benefit. This enables the establishment of local networks in homes and businesses without the need to Ethernet-wire the structure. Additionally, it offers a method of network connection for compact devices like smartphones and tablets. WLANs can support an infinite number of devices because the physical port capacity of the router do not restrict it. Adding one or more repeaters will quickly increase a WLAN’s range. Last but not least, replacing outdated routers with newer models makes upgrading a WLAN much simpler and less expensive than upgrading aging Ethernet cables.
WLANs also simplify the job of IT support and maintenance personnel since they eliminate the need for constant individual connection checks. Furthermore, WLAN installations are less complicated and involve fewer cables and wires. WLANs also assist businesses in adjusting the number of users or devices that require internet access. A WLAN uses less hardware than a wired network, saving money, speeding up installation, and taking up less space in an office environment. Scaling a WLAN is simple. Simply assigning login information allows for the addition of users.
Even with heavy data loads and sophisticated web applications, WLANs allow computing to take place anywhere. Computers, phones, tablets, gaming consoles, and IoT devices are just a few of the many gadgets that businesses can use with a WLAN.
Disadvantages of WLANs
Networks that are wireless by nature are less secure than those that are wired. Limiting access to the network is crucial if security is a concern because any wireless device can attempt to connect to a WLAN. We usually accomplish this using an encryption-based wireless authentication protocol like WEP or WPA. Moreover, interference from other signals or physical obstructions like concrete walls is more likely to occur on wireless networks. Many corporate and government networks continue to use LANs because they provide the best performance and security.
What Is a WLAN Security Setting?
You can protect your WLAN from unauthorized access by using WLAN security settings. Your WLAN and other networked devices would be vulnerable to damage if you left your WLAN unprotected.
WLAN security settings make sure that anyone attempting to connect to the network must first provide their login information and the correct security key. A wireless local area network security (WLAN security) system guards networks against security flaws that wireless transmissions can be subject to.
Wireless security is the safeguarding of wireless networks, devices, and data against unauthorized access and breaches. Protecting the privacy, honesty, and accessibility of wireless networks and their resources, entails several tactics and procedures.
Businesses must protect wireless connections with robust authentication processes, encryption protocols, and access control policies. Others include intrusion detection and prevention systems, and other WLAN security measures to prevent unauthorized access and safeguard data while it is in transit. This safeguards your organization’s data, and you keep the confidence of clients and partners by securing wireless connections.
Wi-Fi security protocols employ encryption technology to protect networks and the data of their clients. Given that wireless networks are frequently less secure than wired ones, wireless security protocols are essential for ensuring your online safety. WEP, WPA, and WPA2 are currently the most popular Wi-Fi security protocols.
What is WEP?
Wired Equivalent Privacy, or WEP, is the name of the most popular and widely used Wi-Fi security protocol. To give wireless local area networks (WLANs) security levels that are on par with wired LANs, developing IEEE 802.11’s privacy component. There have been numerous security flaws with WEP over the years. Additionally, these weaknesses got worse as computing power grew. WEP is still susceptible to security breaches, despite improvements. In 2004, the Wi-Fi Alliance formally phased out WEP.
The connection encrypts data using the RC4 encryption algorithm by Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), which also uses a shared key authentication system. But due to its vulnerability and age, this protocol is insecure.
What is WPA?
A wireless security protocol called WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) was developed to address the growing WEP vulnerabilities. Because it uses a 256-bit encryption key—a significant improvement over the WEP system’s use of 64-bit and 128-bit keys—the WPA Wi-Fi protocol is more secure than WEP. WPA also makes use of the Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP), which creates a new key on-the-fly for each packet of data. Compared to WEP’s fixed-key system, TKIP is significantly more secure.
The Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) protocol replaces the 2003-introduced WEP protocol. It offers heightened security safeguards like enhanced key management and message integrity checks. Although WPA uses the TKIP encryption algorithm, it is still susceptible to attacks.
Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2)
The most popular WLAN security protocol is Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2), which was introduced in 2004. It employs the Counter Mode Cipher Block Chaining Message Authentication Code Protocol (CCMP), which is based on the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) encryption algorithm, to provide for stronger security measures. Since it has better management and is more resistant to attacks, WPA2 is essentially an upgraded version of WPA. WPA2-enabled access points, which are typically routers, are regrettably susceptible to attacks using WEP, just like their predecessors.
Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA3)
The most recent wireless security protocol, Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA3), provides enhanced security features like stronger encryption, a defense against dictionary attacks, and customized data encryption. The Wi-Fi Alliance announced WPA3 in 2018. It introduces Wi-Fi Easy Connect, which facilitates configuration for devices with a constrained or nonexistent display interface, such as IoT devices.
The user scans a QR code or Near Field Communication (NFC) tag presented by the IoT device with their device to establish a secure Wi-Fi connection. Even with improvements like more powerful encryption and secure key exchange, WPA3 has not yet gained much popularity among users. Although it is safer than WPA2, its replacement, it is not yet a widely used technology. WPA3 requires frequent and expensive upgrades because not all hardware automatically supports it.
Wlan vs WiFi
A distinct WLAN is the network itself, whereas a “Wi-Fi connection” refers to a specific wireless connection that a device uses.
Even though it is sometimes referred to as a superset of the IEEE 802.11 standard, “Wi-Fi” is not a technical term and is only sometimes used as a substitute for it. WLANs are undeniably present in Wi-Fi networks. The crucial distinction is that Wi-Fi is not the only kind of WLAN.
WLANs provide network communication via radio waves, including laser and infrared signals, as opposed to physical connections. They adhere to IEEE 802.11 specifications and support wireless network connections using high-frequency radio waves, such as those on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. Devices that follow IEEE 802.11 specifications are referred to as WLAN in everyday speech. As WLAN has expanded and developed, new technological standards like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HyperLAN2 have appeared. Wi-Fi is currently the most popular technology due to its easy setup, reliable connectivity, excellent adaptability, and low implementation costs. In time, WLAN and Wi-Fi became interchangeable.
Differences Between WLAN and WIFI
WiFi is one particular type of wireless network communication technology that is based on the IEEE 802.11 standard. WiFi’s primary objective is to make IEEE 802.11-based wireless network solutions more compatible with each other.
Wireless networking is accomplished with WiFi. Computers were once connected via networks, but nowadays they are connected via radio waves. The Wi-Fi Alliance was established in 1999 as the body responsible for standardizing wireless local area networks. The organization was formerly known as WECA or Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance. In October 2002, it received its official name, the Wi-Fi Alliance.
WLAN includes WiFi, which is the primary difference between WLAN and WiFi. It is a type of network system, and Wi-Fi is one of its components. WLAN thus includes Wi-Fi. Second, WIFI and WLAN have different transmitted signal strengths and coverage.
The Wireless Local Area Network Alliance (“WLANA”) owns the trademark “WIFI.” The trademark is completely unrelated to the standard; it only ensures compatibility between products that bear the brand. People are getting used to it, though, because 802.11b is the most common WiFi protocol. The 802.11b protocol is accessed via WiFi. The connection between WIFI and the WLAN standard. A new technology that makes use of the WLAN protocol is called WLAN, which also includes WiFi.
In terms of supported wireless signals, WLAN and WIFI differ from one another. The maximum WLAN range (with antenna) is 5 kilometers, whereas WiFi’s range is approximately 300 feet (about 90 meters).
Last but not least, while devices almost always use WI-FI brand products inside a WLAN, this is not true for WiFi.
How Does WLAN Work?
Access to the Internet is made possible by a wireless local area network (WLAN), which eliminates the need for cables or other wires to be connected directly to your computer. An access point (AP) instead makes connections between other wireless devices and your LAN. Next, a signal from the LAN is sent to your mobile device via high-frequency radio waves.
What Is an Example of a WLAN?
Wireless connectivity has become necessary for connecting devices. The need for internet access extends beyond just staff members’ laptops and desktop computers to include their smartphones and other personal electronic devices.
Is a LAN the Same as a WLAN?
The local area network is known as LAN. WLAN and LAN are fundamentally different from one another because LAN is dependent on a physical connection, primarily ethernet cables. Coaxial cables were once common, but ethernet cables, which are more recent and superior, have since taken their place.
Computers or other devices must be connected to an Ethernet cable if users want to connect to the network using a LAN. WLAN connection, however, does not have this limitation, allowing users to connect to the network wirelessly.
Why Is My Wi-Fi Called WLAN?
Wi-Fi networks are just one type of WLAN, even though the terms are frequently used synonymously. However, the most popular WLAN technology is Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi is a term used to describe a set of standards for how devices can communicate with one another on wireless networks and is one of the most widely used wireless LAN technologies today.
Does WLAN Work Without Internet?
A wireless router can typically function without an internet connection, which is good news. A local network that does not require an Internet connection can be built to create a WiFi network without the use of the Internet. This network comes in handy when WLAN device connections are required but there is no Internet access.
What Is the Disadvantage of WLAN?
Wireless LAN systems communicate more easily by using radio waves. It is necessary to encrypt the data being transferred. Systems for wireless LANs move much more slowly than those for wired LANs. However, this typically has little impact on most users.
Conclusion
With the aid of WLANs, people can work and commute within the network’s coverage area, which may include a campus, office building, home, or school. A WLAN may create an Internet connection via a gateway. The WLAN technology used by WiFi, which adheres to IEEE 802.11 specifications, is arguably the most well-known. Wireless security protocols have advanced significantly over time, and networks using WPA2 or WPA3 are well on their way to becoming more secure. You can greatly enhance the WLAN security and guard it against unauthorized access or hacking attempts by utilizing the most recent protocols, tools, and practices. If a wireless network is not secured, unauthorized users can quickly log in, disrupt business, and steal confidential information.
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