Wi-Fi

Originally, Wi-Fi certification was applicable only to products using the 802.11b standard. Today, Wi-Fi can apply to products that use any 802.11 standard. The 802.11 specifications are part of an evolving set of wireless network standards known as the 802.11 family. The particular specification under which a Wi-Fi network operates is called the "flavor" of the network. Wi-Fi has gained acceptance in many businesses, agencies, schools, and homes as an alternative to a wired LAN. Many airports, hotels, and fast-food facilities offer public access to Wi-Fi networks. These locations are known as hot spots. Many charge a daily or hourly rate for access, but some are free. An interconnected area of hot spots and network access points is known as a hot zone.

Unless adequately protected, a Wi-Fi network can be susceptible to access by unauthorized users who use the access as a free Internet connection. The activity of locating and exploiting security-exposed wireless LANs is called war driving. An identifying iconography, called war chalking, has evolved. Any entity that has a wireless LAN should use security safeguards such as the Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption standard, the more recent Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA), Internet Protocol Security (IPsec), or a virtual private network (VPN).

Getting started with Wi-Fi

To explore how Wi-Fi is used in the enterprise, here is an additional resource:

Wireless protocols learning guide: This introduction to wireless protocols and technologies will familiarize you with the various technologies and deployment issues like access points, network security and troubleshooting.

Read more about Wi-Fi: - SearchMobileComputing.com provides an "802.xx Fast Reference." - SearchNetworking provides up-to-date links to information about wireless LANs. - The IEEE provides free downloads of all 802.11 specifications. - Dell provides a white paper on "Deploying 802.11b (Wi-Fi) in the Enterprise Network." - The Wi-Fi Alliance has a Web site. - JWire.com provides a list of world-wide Wi-Fi hotspots. - Wi-Fi Networking News provides information about Wi-Fi and the 802.11 specifications. - Laptop coupons are available on NotebookReview.com.

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