Wireless Networking FAQ

This wireless networking FAQ addresses common concerns about wireless networks. Learn the differences between wireless and wired networks and get an overview of the equipment you'll need for a wireless network from these frequently asked questions (FAQ).

What is a Wireless Network?
A wireless local-area network (WLAN) uses radio waves to connect devices, such as laptops, to the Internet and to your business network and applications.

How Far Does the Signal Reach?
A wireless router or access point's signal typically extends up to approximately 300 feet.

What is a Wired Network?
A wired network connects devices to the Internet or other networks using cables. Some believed wired networks were faster and more secure than WLANs. But continual enhancements to WLAN standards and technologies have largely erased those differences.

Who Uses WLANs?
WLANs are frequently offered in public places such as cafes, hotels, and airport lounges. In addition, many businesses have wireless networks throughout their office buildings or campuses for employee and guest use.

What Equipment Do I Need?
Many routers act as WLAN access points. They connect multiple computers (and wireless-capable printers) to a single WLAN and to the Internet.
You can extend WLANs throughout an area by placing additional wireless access points in various locations. The access points extend the wireless signal's range and strength.
Most laptops have built-in wireless networking. If yours doesn't, you'll need a wireless network adapter card, which is typically inexpensive and easy to install.

How Can I Secure a WLAN?
There are many ways to secure your WLAN, including:
Data encryption, which only gives authorized users access to information over your wireless network
User authentication, which identifies computers trying to access the network
Secure access for visitors and guests
Control systems, which protect the laptops and other devices that use the network.

What are the Benefits of a WLAN?
Small businesses can experience many benefits from a WLAN. A few examples:
You can access network resources from any location within the wireless network's coverage area.
Wireless access to the Internet and to company resources help your staff be more productive and collaborative.
You don't have to string cables, as you do with wired networks. Installation can be quick and cost-effective.
You can easily expand WLANs where and as needed, because no wires are involved.
By eliminating or reducing wiring expenses, WLANs can cost less to operate than wired networks.

How Does a Network Switch Work?

How does a network switch work? How does it compare to a hub or router? The following is a brief overview that explains the differences between these essential pieces of network hardware.

How Does a Network Switch Work?: The Basics
How does a network switch in conjunction with other hardware? For starters, switches are a key component of many business networks. They connect multiple PCs, printers, servers and other hardware. Switches allow you to send information, such as email, and access shared resources, including printers, in a smooth, efficient, and transparent manner.
How Does a Network Switch Work?: Unmanaged Switches
An unmanaged network switch works right out of the box. But it's not designed to be configured. Usually, you'll find unmanaged switches in home networking equipment.
How Does a Network Switch Work?: Managed Switches
A managed switch gives you greater flexibility because it can be configured. For example, you can monitor a managed network switch and adjust it locally or remotely. This gives you control over network traffic and who has access to the network.

How Does a Network Switch Work as Compared to a Hub?
In the most basic networks, devices are connected with hubs. But there's a limit to the amount of bandwidth users can share on a hub-based network. The amount of time data takes to get to its destination increases on hub networks as more devices are added. A switch avoids these and other limitations of hub networks.
How Does a Network Switch Work as Compared to a Router?
Just as switches allow different devices on a network to communicate, routers allow different networks to communicate. A router also connects networked computers to the Internet, allowing multiple users to share a connection. And a router acts as a dispatcher. It chooses the best route for information to travel, so that it's transmitted as efficiently as possible.
Not sure what you need? Talk to a local Cisco reseller who understands your specific requirements. Your reseller can design, install, and help you maintain your network. You'll get a secure, reliable, affordable network backed by Cisco and customized to meet your needs today--giving you a clear path to tomorrow.