Wireless Networks and Standards

Introduction

• Wireless networks have become a staple in modern life.
• Behind these networks is significant work, notably by The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

IEEE 802.11 Committee

• Focuses on creating worldwide standards for wireless networking.
• Previously used standards like 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11b.
• To simplify, IEEE assigns easier names:
  • 802.11ac = Wi-Fi 5
  • 802.11ax = Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E (extended)
  • 802.11b = Wi-Fi 7
• Future standards will continue with this naming convention, e.g., Wi-Fi 8, Wi-Fi 9.

Wireless Frequency Ranges

• Common frequencies: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz.
• Access points may support combinations of these frequencies.
• Frequencies are organized into channels, e.g.,
  • Channel 6 (2.4 GHz) centered on 2437 MHz
  • Channel 44 (5 GHz) centered on 5.22 GHz

Bandwidth

• The frequency range used is referred to as bandwidth.
• Common bandwidths: 20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz, and 160 MHz.
• Different bands have different bandwidths available.

Frequency Ranges and Channels

• 2.4 GHz Range: Has three non-overlapping channels using 20 MHz bandwidth.
• 5 GHz Spectrum: Offers more frequencies, bandwidth varies from 20 MHz to 160 MHz.
• 6 GHz Range: Even more frequencies, facilitating non-conflicting networks.

Choosing the Optimal Frequency

• Environment and existing access points influence frequency choice.
• Older devices may only support 2.4 GHz.
• Modern devices often support multiple frequencies and can choose the best one.

Band Steering

• Feature in access points to optimize frequency use.
• Without band steering, devices choose the strongest signal.
• With band steering, administrators can guide devices to optimal frequencies.

Regulatory and Technological Challenges

• Different countries regulate frequencies differently.
• U.S. regulation by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
• Global cooperation is essential for managing frequencies effectively.

Standards and Interoperability

• 802.11h Standard: Adds interoperability features for co-existing networks.
• International Telecommunications Union (ITU) provides global guidelines.

Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS)

• Automatically configures access points to avoid frequency conflicts.

Transmit Power Control (TPC)

• Allows access points to control the power level of clients.
• Ensures optimal power levels without conflict.

Conclusion

• Wireless networks rely on complex standards and technologies.
• Ongoing cooperation and innovation are key to managing these networks effectively.