WLAN FAQ

A: A wireless gateway is a special type of access point which allows wireless network clients to share an
Internet connection (DSL or cable modem). Wireless gateways typically include features such as NAT and
VPN support which may not be found in simple access points.
Q: What is the wireless SSID?
A: The wireless SSID, also known as the ‘Network Name’, is the Service Set Identification for your radio
network (this item is case sensitive: use capital and lower case letters as shown in the SSID) The Service Set
Identifier (SSID) controls access to a given wireless network. This value MUST match the SSID of any and all
access points and clients that you want to communicate with. If the value does not match, access to the
system is not granted. The SSID can be up to 32 case sensitive characters.
Q: Why do 802.11b and 802.11g WLAN products operate in the 2.4 GHz frequency range?
A: This frequency range is called the ISM (Industrial, Scientific and Medical) band. The ISM band has been
set aside by regulatory agencies for unlicensed use by a variety of products including wireless networks,
cordless phones, microwave ovens and some low power scientific and medical equipment. The fact that a
license is not required for a product to operate in this frequency range has greatly accelerated the
development of wireless networking products. See the
comparison chart below for an overview of the
802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g specifications.
Q: Why do 802.11a WLANS operate in the 5 GHz frequency range?
A: This frequency is called the UNII (Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure) band. Like the 2.4 GHz
ISM band used by 802.11b and 802.11g products, this range has been set aside by regulatory agencies for
unlicensed use by a variety of products. A major difference between the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands is that
fewer consumer products operate in the 5 GHz band. This reduces the chances of problems due to RF
interference. See the
comparison chart below for an overview of the 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g
specifications.
Q: What can be done to secure a WLAN?
A: Using a WEP key is the basic security mechanism which is available with all 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g
devices. Newer security mechanisms such as Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and 802.1x are also available
with some products.
Q: What is WEP?
A: WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) is an optional IEEE 802.11 feature used to provide data security that is
equivalent to that of a typical wired LAN. WEP uses data encryption to provide a basic level of security for
WLAN users. WEP allows the administrator to define an "encryption key" which is used to encrypt data before
it is transmitted through the airwaves. When WEP is enabled, all stations (clients and Access Points) are
required to have the same WEP key. Network access is denied to anyone who does not have the correct
key.
Q: What is WPA?
A: WPA stands for Wi-Fi Protected Access. It is a recent specification which provides stronger security than
WEP via enhanced encryption and user authentication.
Q: What is 802.1x?
A: 802.1x is a security specification which mandates that every user be ‘authenticated’ before they are allowed
access to the wireless network. Authentication can be done in several ways, but is most commonly
accomplished via a RADIUS server.
Q: What are Power Save Polling and Constant Awake Mode?
A: Power Save Polling and Constant Awake Mode are operating modes defined by the IEEE 802.11a,
802.11b, and 802.11g specifications. When a client device is in Power Save Polling (PSP) mode, the radio
transmitter will be turned off for short periods of time to conserve battery power or electricity. When a client
device is in Constant Awake Mode (CAM) the radio transmitter is turned on whenever the computer is
operating.
Q: Is WLAN technology only for notebook computers?
A: No. While WLAN systems are ideal for networking mobile computers they are equally useful for connecting
desktop computers and a variety of emerging mobile platforms like PDA’s and Tablet PC’s. WLAN solutions
are designed to eliminate cables to networked devices thereby eliminating cabling costs and increasing