Important Terminologies of IEEE 8011 Architecture
Station: Stations (STA) comprise all devices and equipment that are connected to the wireless LAN. It can be of two types:
- Wireless Access Point (WAP): WAPs or simply access points (AP) are wireless routers that bridge connections for base stations.
- Client: Examples include computers, laptops, printers, and smartphones.
Access Point: It is a device that can be classified as a station because of its functionalities and acts as a connection between wireless medium and distributed systems.
Distribution System: A system used to interconnect a set of BSSs and integrated LANs to create an ESS.
Frame: It is a MAC protocol data unit.
SSID (Service Set Identifier): It’s the network name for a particular WLAN. All-access points and devices on a specific WLAN must use the same SSID to communicate.
SDU: It is a data unit that acts as an input to each layer. These can be fragmented or aggregated to form a PDU.
PDU: It is a data unit projected as an output to communicate with the corresponding layer at the other end. They contain a header specific to the layer.
Network Interface Controller: It is also known as network interface card. It is a hardware component that connects devices to the network.
Portal: Serves as a gateway to other networks
IEEE 802.11 Architecture
The IEEE 802.11 standard, commonly known as Wi-Fi, outlines the architecture and defines the MAC and physical layer specifications for wireless LANs (WLANs). Wi-Fi uses high-frequency radio waves instead of cables for connecting the devices in LAN. Given the mobility of WLAN nodes, they can move unrestricted within the network coverage zone. The 802.11 structure is designed to accommodate mobile stations that participate actively in network decisions. Furthermore, it can seamlessly integrate with 2G, 3G, and 4G networks.
The Wi-Fi standard represents a set of wireless LAN standards developed by the Working Group of IEEE LAN/MAN standards committee (IEEE 802). The term 802.11x is also used to denote the set of standards. Various specifications and amendments include 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11e, 802.11g, 802.11n etc.
Table of Content
- Important Terminologies of IEEE 802.11 Architecture
- IEEE 802.11 Architecture and Services
- Services provided by the WLAN
- Frame Format of IEEE 802.11
- WiFi Alliance
- Advantages and Disadvantages of IEEE 802.11 Architecture
- Applications of IEEE 802.11 Architecture
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