The advantages of a local area network (LAN) are obvious: Users can share software applications and data—in short, they can stay in touch. Equally obvious are its disadvantages: Each computer—even an otherwise portable laptop—must be tethered by cable to a port in the wall. Unplug and you’re offline and out of touch.
THE SPEED ISSUE
In the past, speed was not wireless’ strong suit, so potential users will want to know: Is a WLAN fast enough for our needs? A typical wired LAN transmits data at between 10 and 100 megabits per second (Mbps). The old wireless LANs (based on the 802.11 technical standard for wireless transmission) crept along at no more than 2 Mbps, which is why most users rejected WLANs unless they had no other choice. Now a new standard (802.11b) is able to move data at more than an order of magnitude faster—a speed that makes it nearly as fast as the lower end of the standard LAN transmission rate, and thus a practical choice for most business environments.
Compared with LAN hardware, WLAN equipment is relatively expensive (we’ll break down costs later in this article). However, when you factor in WLANs’ many savings—which we’ll also outline—the entire setup works out to be less expensive. Here’s why: The biggest single expense of a traditional LAN is the cost of installing it. Wires or cables have to be snaked under floors and through ceilings and walls, and ports must be installed for each computer hook-up. When an office is reconfigured, new cable usually has to be added and new ports installed so users can plug in. Those costs typically amount to several times the cost of the LAN equipment itself.
With a wireless system, however, you avoid all those structural installation costs because there’s no need to run wires or cable to each port—transmission is through the air. Since floors, ceilings and walls are transparent to radio waves, the signals go right through them. And since WLAN software is mostly plug-and-play capable, much of it loads onto the computer network automatically, requiring little customization.
In addition, because WLANs don’t need structural installation, moving the computer setup to a new office space is as simple as packing up the equipment, then unpacking it in the new location and plugging it into the electric wall socket. No walls or floors to open up, no cables, wires or ports to install. Even upgrades or office expansions are relatively easy because there is no need to replace or move anything structurally.
From a productivity point of view, WLANs are especially attractive. If the computer users in the office all work on laptops—recommended in a wireless office—they can stay connected no matter where in the area they tote their computers (or PDAs or handhelds). All the computers need are wireless network interface cards (NICs). That gives them full access to the files on the network, printers and the Internet. A WLAN with sufficient, properly positioned access points can provide wireless connectivity over an entire building or even over an office complex.
WORKING TOGETHER
When used in an audit or consulting engagement, WLANs really shine. For example, the auditors can take their laptops with them and
Share disk storage on the senior auditor’s laptop, making many hard-copy workpapers unnecessary.
Access special application software designed for networks or collaborative workgroup projects, making the engagement more efficient.
Link to a client’s system more easily, enabling the use of client resources, including disk access for file downloads and fast Internet access.
When used in conferences, meetings and training programs, a wireless system makes it easier to display multimedia presentations, technical documents, training exercises and other materials directly on the participants’ computers. A wireless setup could replace expensive multimedia projectors, which cost a minimum of about $4,000 each.
The bottom line: The cost of installing a WLAN varies considerably. Much depends on the organization’s current computer equipment, the wireless hardware selected, the vendor, the physical proximity of the computers, the number of staff members who access the system and whether and how much professional assistance is needed to get the system up and running.
Proper positioning of access points is critical to achieve optimal communications; fortunately, several vendors bundle system survey tools to determine the best positions with their equipment. In general, equipment designed for enterprise-wide wireless networking is more expensive because the equipment and bundled software are more sophisticated than that designed for small office use. However, prices have been dropping recently.
CALCULATE COSTS
The following provides a minimum and maximum cost estimate of the equipment that is needed for a WLAN in a typical office:
Generally, every staff person who must move about the office with his or her computer should have a laptop that can accommodate a wireless NIC. A good quality laptop costs between $2,000 and $3,500.
Every laptop needs a wireless NIC, which costs between $100 and $300.
Every desktop to be connected to the WLAN will require adapters (a PCI or ISA) and a wireless NIC, which costs between $160 and $400. At least one desktop unit should act as a file and print server.
Wireless LAN signals have a transmission range of 80 to 1,500 feet, depending on the type of equipment, the data exchange rate and the obstacles that the signals must pass through. Access points also vary by the maximum number of simultaneous users, ranging from 15 to 60 users per access point depending on the type of equipment.
For optimal positioning of access points, it’s probably wise to engage a consultant to conduct signal testing. In general, you’ll probably need an access point for every 2,000 square feet of floor space. Access points cost between $200 and $1,500.
You should also add between $200 and $1,000 for a firewall or cable/DSL router.
These estimates don’t include training staff members, obtaining professional assistance in installation, special-purpose network software to increase staff productivity, fees charged by the Internet provider, network administration and maintenance.
Although security problems exist with any type of network, WLANs are slightly more risky than traditional LANs. The new 802.11b standard includes built-in security, providing some defense against unauthorized interception and access; however, there still are weaknesses. To upgrade security, some developers have implemented proprietary solutions; unfortunately, these features may make it impossible to interchange equipment from different manufacturers, limiting your LAN design options. But, as a practical matter, most users probably should not worry about security unless they feel that their size or type of business make them high-risk targets.
Should you consider unplugging and going to a WLAN? That depends on many factors. If you must upgrade your conventional wired LAN, and that work involves new wires or cables, you may want to unplug because in the long run it will probably save you money.
One thing you can be assured of is that wireless technology is the wave of the future—or at least the immediate future. While the hardware today is a bit pricey, costs are falling and will continue to do so for some time to come, and speed and reliability will improve apace. Since WLAN installations do not require structural work, it may be cheaper to unplug now and upgrade over time as WLAN hardware improves rather than make a huge investment in new cables and wires.
Thursday, 1 November 2007
Ready to Pull the Plug?
The advantages of a local area network (LAN) are obvious: Users can share software applications and data—in short, they can stay in touch. Equally obvious are its disadvantages: Each computer—even an otherwise portable laptop—must be tethered by cable to a port in the wall. Unplug and you’re offline and out of touch.
THE SPEED ISSUE
In the past, speed was not wireless’ strong suit, so potential users will want to know: Is a WLAN fast enough for our needs? A typical wired LAN transmits data at between 10 and 100 megabits per second (Mbps). The old wireless LANs (based on the 802.11 technical standard for wireless transmission) crept along at no more than 2 Mbps, which is why most users rejected WLANs unless they had no other choice. Now a new standard (802.11b) is able to move data at more than an order of magnitude faster—a speed that makes it nearly as fast as the lower end of the standard LAN transmission rate, and thus a practical choice for most business environments.
Compared with LAN hardware, WLAN equipment is relatively expensive (we’ll break down costs later in this article). However, when you factor in WLANs’ many savings—which we’ll also outline—the entire setup works out to be less expensive. Here’s why: The biggest single expense of a traditional LAN is the cost of installing it. Wires or cables have to be snaked under floors and through ceilings and walls, and ports must be installed for each computer hook-up. When an office is reconfigured, new cable usually has to be added and new ports installed so users can plug in. Those costs typically amount to several times the cost of the LAN equipment itself.
With a wireless system, however, you avoid all those structural installation costs because there’s no need to run wires or cable to each port—transmission is through the air. Since floors, ceilings and walls are transparent to radio waves, the signals go right through them. And since WLAN software is mostly plug-and-play capable, much of it loads onto the computer network automatically, requiring little customization.
In addition, because WLANs don’t need structural installation, moving the computer setup to a new office space is as simple as packing up the equipment, then unpacking it in the new location and plugging it into the electric wall socket. No walls or floors to open up, no cables, wires or ports to install. Even upgrades or office expansions are relatively easy because there is no need to replace or move anything structurally.
From a productivity point of view, WLANs are especially attractive. If the computer users in the office all work on laptops—recommended in a wireless office—they can stay connected no matter where in the area they tote their computers (or PDAs or handhelds). All the computers need are wireless network interface cards (NICs). That gives them full access to the files on the network, printers and the Internet. A WLAN with sufficient, properly positioned access points can provide wireless connectivity over an entire building or even over an office complex.
WORKING TOGETHER
When used in an audit or consulting engagement, WLANs really shine. For example, the auditors can take their laptops with them and
Share disk storage on the senior auditor’s laptop, making many hard-copy workpapers unnecessary.
Access special application software designed for networks or collaborative workgroup projects, making the engagement more efficient.
Link to a client’s system more easily, enabling the use of client resources, including disk access for file downloads and fast Internet access.
When used in conferences, meetings and training programs, a wireless system makes it easier to display multimedia presentations, technical documents, training exercises and other materials directly on the participants’ computers. A wireless setup could replace expensive multimedia projectors, which cost a minimum of about $4,000 each.
The bottom line: The cost of installing a WLAN varies considerably. Much depends on the organization’s current computer equipment, the wireless hardware selected, the vendor, the physical proximity of the computers, the number of staff members who access the system and whether and how much professional assistance is needed to get the system up and running.
Proper positioning of access points is critical to achieve optimal communications; fortunately, several vendors bundle system survey tools to determine the best positions with their equipment. In general, equipment designed for enterprise-wide wireless networking is more expensive because the equipment and bundled software are more sophisticated than that designed for small office use. However, prices have been dropping recently.
CALCULATE COSTS
The following provides a minimum and maximum cost estimate of the equipment that is needed for a WLAN in a typical office:
Generally, every staff person who must move about the office with his or her computer should have a laptop that can accommodate a wireless NIC. A good quality laptop costs between $2,000 and $3,500.
Every laptop needs a wireless NIC, which costs between $100 and $300.
Every desktop to be connected to the WLAN will require adapters (a PCI or ISA) and a wireless NIC, which costs between $160 and $400. At least one desktop unit should act as a file and print server.
Wireless LAN signals have a transmission range of 80 to 1,500 feet, depending on the type of equipment, the data exchange rate and the obstacles that the signals must pass through. Access points also vary by the maximum number of simultaneous users, ranging from 15 to 60 users per access point depending on the type of equipment.
For optimal positioning of access points, it’s probably wise to engage a consultant to conduct signal testing. In general, you’ll probably need an access point for every 2,000 square feet of floor space. Access points cost between $200 and $1,500.
You should also add between $200 and $1,000 for a firewall or cable/DSL router.
These estimates don’t include training staff members, obtaining professional assistance in installation, special-purpose network software to increase staff productivity, fees charged by the Internet provider, network administration and maintenance.
Although security problems exist with any type of network, WLANs are slightly more risky than traditional LANs. The new 802.11b standard includes built-in security, providing some defense against unauthorized interception and access; however, there still are weaknesses. To upgrade security, some developers have implemented proprietary solutions; unfortunately, these features may make it impossible to interchange equipment from different manufacturers, limiting your LAN design options. But, as a practical matter, most users probably should not worry about security unless they feel that their size or type of business make them high-risk targets.
Should you consider unplugging and going to a WLAN? That depends on many factors. If you must upgrade your conventional wired LAN, and that work involves new wires or cables, you may want to unplug because in the long run it will probably save you money.
One thing you can be assured of is that wireless technology is the wave of the future—or at least the immediate future. While the hardware today is a bit pricey, costs are falling and will continue to do so for some time to come, and speed and reliability will improve apace. Since WLAN installations do not require structural work, it may be cheaper to unplug now and upgrade over time as WLAN hardware improves rather than make a huge investment in new cables and wires.
THE SPEED ISSUE
In the past, speed was not wireless’ strong suit, so potential users will want to know: Is a WLAN fast enough for our needs? A typical wired LAN transmits data at between 10 and 100 megabits per second (Mbps). The old wireless LANs (based on the 802.11 technical standard for wireless transmission) crept along at no more than 2 Mbps, which is why most users rejected WLANs unless they had no other choice. Now a new standard (802.11b) is able to move data at more than an order of magnitude faster—a speed that makes it nearly as fast as the lower end of the standard LAN transmission rate, and thus a practical choice for most business environments.
Compared with LAN hardware, WLAN equipment is relatively expensive (we’ll break down costs later in this article). However, when you factor in WLANs’ many savings—which we’ll also outline—the entire setup works out to be less expensive. Here’s why: The biggest single expense of a traditional LAN is the cost of installing it. Wires or cables have to be snaked under floors and through ceilings and walls, and ports must be installed for each computer hook-up. When an office is reconfigured, new cable usually has to be added and new ports installed so users can plug in. Those costs typically amount to several times the cost of the LAN equipment itself.
With a wireless system, however, you avoid all those structural installation costs because there’s no need to run wires or cable to each port—transmission is through the air. Since floors, ceilings and walls are transparent to radio waves, the signals go right through them. And since WLAN software is mostly plug-and-play capable, much of it loads onto the computer network automatically, requiring little customization.
In addition, because WLANs don’t need structural installation, moving the computer setup to a new office space is as simple as packing up the equipment, then unpacking it in the new location and plugging it into the electric wall socket. No walls or floors to open up, no cables, wires or ports to install. Even upgrades or office expansions are relatively easy because there is no need to replace or move anything structurally.
From a productivity point of view, WLANs are especially attractive. If the computer users in the office all work on laptops—recommended in a wireless office—they can stay connected no matter where in the area they tote their computers (or PDAs or handhelds). All the computers need are wireless network interface cards (NICs). That gives them full access to the files on the network, printers and the Internet. A WLAN with sufficient, properly positioned access points can provide wireless connectivity over an entire building or even over an office complex.
WORKING TOGETHER
When used in an audit or consulting engagement, WLANs really shine. For example, the auditors can take their laptops with them and
Share disk storage on the senior auditor’s laptop, making many hard-copy workpapers unnecessary.
Access special application software designed for networks or collaborative workgroup projects, making the engagement more efficient.
Link to a client’s system more easily, enabling the use of client resources, including disk access for file downloads and fast Internet access.
When used in conferences, meetings and training programs, a wireless system makes it easier to display multimedia presentations, technical documents, training exercises and other materials directly on the participants’ computers. A wireless setup could replace expensive multimedia projectors, which cost a minimum of about $4,000 each.
The bottom line: The cost of installing a WLAN varies considerably. Much depends on the organization’s current computer equipment, the wireless hardware selected, the vendor, the physical proximity of the computers, the number of staff members who access the system and whether and how much professional assistance is needed to get the system up and running.
Proper positioning of access points is critical to achieve optimal communications; fortunately, several vendors bundle system survey tools to determine the best positions with their equipment. In general, equipment designed for enterprise-wide wireless networking is more expensive because the equipment and bundled software are more sophisticated than that designed for small office use. However, prices have been dropping recently.
CALCULATE COSTS
The following provides a minimum and maximum cost estimate of the equipment that is needed for a WLAN in a typical office:
Generally, every staff person who must move about the office with his or her computer should have a laptop that can accommodate a wireless NIC. A good quality laptop costs between $2,000 and $3,500.
Every laptop needs a wireless NIC, which costs between $100 and $300.
Every desktop to be connected to the WLAN will require adapters (a PCI or ISA) and a wireless NIC, which costs between $160 and $400. At least one desktop unit should act as a file and print server.
Wireless LAN signals have a transmission range of 80 to 1,500 feet, depending on the type of equipment, the data exchange rate and the obstacles that the signals must pass through. Access points also vary by the maximum number of simultaneous users, ranging from 15 to 60 users per access point depending on the type of equipment.
For optimal positioning of access points, it’s probably wise to engage a consultant to conduct signal testing. In general, you’ll probably need an access point for every 2,000 square feet of floor space. Access points cost between $200 and $1,500.
You should also add between $200 and $1,000 for a firewall or cable/DSL router.
These estimates don’t include training staff members, obtaining professional assistance in installation, special-purpose network software to increase staff productivity, fees charged by the Internet provider, network administration and maintenance.
Although security problems exist with any type of network, WLANs are slightly more risky than traditional LANs. The new 802.11b standard includes built-in security, providing some defense against unauthorized interception and access; however, there still are weaknesses. To upgrade security, some developers have implemented proprietary solutions; unfortunately, these features may make it impossible to interchange equipment from different manufacturers, limiting your LAN design options. But, as a practical matter, most users probably should not worry about security unless they feel that their size or type of business make them high-risk targets.
Should you consider unplugging and going to a WLAN? That depends on many factors. If you must upgrade your conventional wired LAN, and that work involves new wires or cables, you may want to unplug because in the long run it will probably save you money.
One thing you can be assured of is that wireless technology is the wave of the future—or at least the immediate future. While the hardware today is a bit pricey, costs are falling and will continue to do so for some time to come, and speed and reliability will improve apace. Since WLAN installations do not require structural work, it may be cheaper to unplug now and upgrade over time as WLAN hardware improves rather than make a huge investment in new cables and wires.
Ready to Pull the Plug?
The advantages of a local area network (LAN) are obvious: Users can share software applications and data—in short, they can stay in touch. Equally obvious are its disadvantages: Each computer—even an otherwise portable laptop—must be tethered by cable to a port in the wall. Unplug and you’re offline and out of touch.
THE SPEED ISSUE
In the past, speed was not wireless’ strong suit, so potential users will want to know: Is a WLAN fast enough for our needs? A typical wired LAN transmits data at between 10 and 100 megabits per second (Mbps). The old wireless LANs (based on the 802.11 technical standard for wireless transmission) crept along at no more than 2 Mbps, which is why most users rejected WLANs unless they had no other choice. Now a new standard (802.11b) is able to move data at more than an order of magnitude faster—a speed that makes it nearly as fast as the lower end of the standard LAN transmission rate, and thus a practical choice for most business environments.
Compared with LAN hardware, WLAN equipment is relatively expensive (we’ll break down costs later in this article). However, when you factor in WLANs’ many savings—which we’ll also outline—the entire setup works out to be less expensive. Here’s why: The biggest single expense of a traditional LAN is the cost of installing it. Wires or cables have to be snaked under floors and through ceilings and walls, and ports must be installed for each computer hook-up. When an office is reconfigured, new cable usually has to be added and new ports installed so users can plug in. Those costs typically amount to several times the cost of the LAN equipment itself.
With a wireless system, however, you avoid all those structural installation costs because there’s no need to run wires or cable to each port—transmission is through the air. Since floors, ceilings and walls are transparent to radio waves, the signals go right through them. And since WLAN software is mostly plug-and-play capable, much of it loads onto the computer network automatically, requiring little customization.
In addition, because WLANs don’t need structural installation, moving the computer setup to a new office space is as simple as packing up the equipment, then unpacking it in the new location and plugging it into the electric wall socket. No walls or floors to open up, no cables, wires or ports to install. Even upgrades or office expansions are relatively easy because there is no need to replace or move anything structurally.
From a productivity point of view, WLANs are especially attractive. If the computer users in the office all work on laptops—recommended in a wireless office—they can stay connected no matter where in the area they tote their computers (or PDAs or handhelds). All the computers need are wireless network interface cards (NICs). That gives them full access to the files on the network, printers and the Internet. A WLAN with sufficient, properly positioned access points can provide wireless connectivity over an entire building or even over an office complex.
WORKING TOGETHER
When used in an audit or consulting engagement, WLANs really shine. For example, the auditors can take their laptops with them and
Share disk storage on the senior auditor’s laptop, making many hard-copy workpapers unnecessary.
Access special application software designed for networks or collaborative workgroup projects, making the engagement more efficient.
Link to a client’s system more easily, enabling the use of client resources, including disk access for file downloads and fast Internet access.
When used in conferences, meetings and training programs, a wireless system makes it easier to display multimedia presentations, technical documents, training exercises and other materials directly on the participants’ computers. A wireless setup could replace expensive multimedia projectors, which cost a minimum of about $4,000 each.
The bottom line: The cost of installing a WLAN varies considerably. Much depends on the organization’s current computer equipment, the wireless hardware selected, the vendor, the physical proximity of the computers, the number of staff members who access the system and whether and how much professional assistance is needed to get the system up and running.
Proper positioning of access points is critical to achieve optimal communications; fortunately, several vendors bundle system survey tools to determine the best positions with their equipment. In general, equipment designed for enterprise-wide wireless networking is more expensive because the equipment and bundled software are more sophisticated than that designed for small office use. However, prices have been dropping recently.
CALCULATE COSTS
The following provides a minimum and maximum cost estimate of the equipment that is needed for a WLAN in a typical office:
Generally, every staff person who must move about the office with his or her computer should have a laptop that can accommodate a wireless NIC. A good quality laptop costs between $2,000 and $3,500.
Every laptop needs a wireless NIC, which costs between $100 and $300.
Every desktop to be connected to the WLAN will require adapters (a PCI or ISA) and a wireless NIC, which costs between $160 and $400. At least one desktop unit should act as a file and print server.
Wireless LAN signals have a transmission range of 80 to 1,500 feet, depending on the type of equipment, the data exchange rate and the obstacles that the signals must pass through. Access points also vary by the maximum number of simultaneous users, ranging from 15 to 60 users per access point depending on the type of equipment.
For optimal positioning of access points, it’s probably wise to engage a consultant to conduct signal testing. In general, you’ll probably need an access point for every 2,000 square feet of floor space. Access points cost between $200 and $1,500.
You should also add between $200 and $1,000 for a firewall or cable/DSL router.
These estimates don’t include training staff members, obtaining professional assistance in installation, special-purpose network software to increase staff productivity, fees charged by the Internet provider, network administration and maintenance.
Although security problems exist with any type of network, WLANs are slightly more risky than traditional LANs. The new 802.11b standard includes built-in security, providing some defense against unauthorized interception and access; however, there still are weaknesses. To upgrade security, some developers have implemented proprietary solutions; unfortunately, these features may make it impossible to interchange equipment from different manufacturers, limiting your LAN design options. But, as a practical matter, most users probably should not worry about security unless they feel that their size or type of business make them high-risk targets.
Should you consider unplugging and going to a WLAN? That depends on many factors. If you must upgrade your conventional wired LAN, and that work involves new wires or cables, you may want to unplug because in the long run it will probably save you money.
One thing you can be assured of is that wireless technology is the wave of the future—or at least the immediate future. While the hardware today is a bit pricey, costs are falling and will continue to do so for some time to come, and speed and reliability will improve apace. Since WLAN installations do not require structural work, it may be cheaper to unplug now and upgrade over time as WLAN hardware improves rather than make a huge investment in new cables and wires.
THE SPEED ISSUE
In the past, speed was not wireless’ strong suit, so potential users will want to know: Is a WLAN fast enough for our needs? A typical wired LAN transmits data at between 10 and 100 megabits per second (Mbps). The old wireless LANs (based on the 802.11 technical standard for wireless transmission) crept along at no more than 2 Mbps, which is why most users rejected WLANs unless they had no other choice. Now a new standard (802.11b) is able to move data at more than an order of magnitude faster—a speed that makes it nearly as fast as the lower end of the standard LAN transmission rate, and thus a practical choice for most business environments.
Compared with LAN hardware, WLAN equipment is relatively expensive (we’ll break down costs later in this article). However, when you factor in WLANs’ many savings—which we’ll also outline—the entire setup works out to be less expensive. Here’s why: The biggest single expense of a traditional LAN is the cost of installing it. Wires or cables have to be snaked under floors and through ceilings and walls, and ports must be installed for each computer hook-up. When an office is reconfigured, new cable usually has to be added and new ports installed so users can plug in. Those costs typically amount to several times the cost of the LAN equipment itself.
With a wireless system, however, you avoid all those structural installation costs because there’s no need to run wires or cable to each port—transmission is through the air. Since floors, ceilings and walls are transparent to radio waves, the signals go right through them. And since WLAN software is mostly plug-and-play capable, much of it loads onto the computer network automatically, requiring little customization.
In addition, because WLANs don’t need structural installation, moving the computer setup to a new office space is as simple as packing up the equipment, then unpacking it in the new location and plugging it into the electric wall socket. No walls or floors to open up, no cables, wires or ports to install. Even upgrades or office expansions are relatively easy because there is no need to replace or move anything structurally.
From a productivity point of view, WLANs are especially attractive. If the computer users in the office all work on laptops—recommended in a wireless office—they can stay connected no matter where in the area they tote their computers (or PDAs or handhelds). All the computers need are wireless network interface cards (NICs). That gives them full access to the files on the network, printers and the Internet. A WLAN with sufficient, properly positioned access points can provide wireless connectivity over an entire building or even over an office complex.
WORKING TOGETHER
When used in an audit or consulting engagement, WLANs really shine. For example, the auditors can take their laptops with them and
Share disk storage on the senior auditor’s laptop, making many hard-copy workpapers unnecessary.
Access special application software designed for networks or collaborative workgroup projects, making the engagement more efficient.
Link to a client’s system more easily, enabling the use of client resources, including disk access for file downloads and fast Internet access.
When used in conferences, meetings and training programs, a wireless system makes it easier to display multimedia presentations, technical documents, training exercises and other materials directly on the participants’ computers. A wireless setup could replace expensive multimedia projectors, which cost a minimum of about $4,000 each.
The bottom line: The cost of installing a WLAN varies considerably. Much depends on the organization’s current computer equipment, the wireless hardware selected, the vendor, the physical proximity of the computers, the number of staff members who access the system and whether and how much professional assistance is needed to get the system up and running.
Proper positioning of access points is critical to achieve optimal communications; fortunately, several vendors bundle system survey tools to determine the best positions with their equipment. In general, equipment designed for enterprise-wide wireless networking is more expensive because the equipment and bundled software are more sophisticated than that designed for small office use. However, prices have been dropping recently.
CALCULATE COSTS
The following provides a minimum and maximum cost estimate of the equipment that is needed for a WLAN in a typical office:
Generally, every staff person who must move about the office with his or her computer should have a laptop that can accommodate a wireless NIC. A good quality laptop costs between $2,000 and $3,500.
Every laptop needs a wireless NIC, which costs between $100 and $300.
Every desktop to be connected to the WLAN will require adapters (a PCI or ISA) and a wireless NIC, which costs between $160 and $400. At least one desktop unit should act as a file and print server.
Wireless LAN signals have a transmission range of 80 to 1,500 feet, depending on the type of equipment, the data exchange rate and the obstacles that the signals must pass through. Access points also vary by the maximum number of simultaneous users, ranging from 15 to 60 users per access point depending on the type of equipment.
For optimal positioning of access points, it’s probably wise to engage a consultant to conduct signal testing. In general, you’ll probably need an access point for every 2,000 square feet of floor space. Access points cost between $200 and $1,500.
You should also add between $200 and $1,000 for a firewall or cable/DSL router.
These estimates don’t include training staff members, obtaining professional assistance in installation, special-purpose network software to increase staff productivity, fees charged by the Internet provider, network administration and maintenance.
Although security problems exist with any type of network, WLANs are slightly more risky than traditional LANs. The new 802.11b standard includes built-in security, providing some defense against unauthorized interception and access; however, there still are weaknesses. To upgrade security, some developers have implemented proprietary solutions; unfortunately, these features may make it impossible to interchange equipment from different manufacturers, limiting your LAN design options. But, as a practical matter, most users probably should not worry about security unless they feel that their size or type of business make them high-risk targets.
Should you consider unplugging and going to a WLAN? That depends on many factors. If you must upgrade your conventional wired LAN, and that work involves new wires or cables, you may want to unplug because in the long run it will probably save you money.
One thing you can be assured of is that wireless technology is the wave of the future—or at least the immediate future. While the hardware today is a bit pricey, costs are falling and will continue to do so for some time to come, and speed and reliability will improve apace. Since WLAN installations do not require structural work, it may be cheaper to unplug now and upgrade over time as WLAN hardware improves rather than make a huge investment in new cables and wires.
CROSS-LAYER WIRELESS MULTIMEDIA TRANSMISSION:
BRIEF REVIEW OF ADAPTATION AND PROTECTION STRATEGIES AT DIFFERENT LAYERS
Numerous solutions have been proposed for efficient multimedia streaming over wireless networks. Potential solutions for robust wireless multimedia transmission over error-prone networks include application-layer packetization, (rate-distortion optimized) scheduling, joint source-channel coding, error resilience, and error concealment mechanisms. An excellent review of channel-adaptive multimedia streaming research is provided in.
Transport issues for wireless (multimedia) transmission have been examined in. At the PHY and MAC layers, significant gains have been reported by adopting cross-layer optimization, such as link adaptation, channelaware scheduling, and optimal power control. However, these contributions are aimed at improving throughput or reducing power consumption without taking into consideration multimedia content and traffic characteristics. Explicit consideration of multimedia characteristics and requirements can further enhance the important advances achieved in cross-layer design at the lower layers. Possible solutions and architectures for cross-layer optimized multimedia transmission have been proposed in.
To provide QoS for multimedia applications, the IEEE 802.11 Working Group has currently defined a new supplement to the existing legacy 802.11 MAC sublayer, called IEEE 802.11e. Note that even though emerging MAC standards provide QoS support, there are no QoS guarantees for multimedia applications, and systemwide resource management is not always fair or efficient. This is due to the time-varying nature of the wireless channel and multimedia characteristics, and also the lack of cross-layer awareness of the application and MAC layers about each other.
Numerous solutions have been proposed for efficient multimedia streaming over wireless networks. Potential solutions for robust wireless multimedia transmission over error-prone networks include application-layer packetization, (rate-distortion optimized) scheduling, joint source-channel coding, error resilience, and error concealment mechanisms. An excellent review of channel-adaptive multimedia streaming research is provided in.
Transport issues for wireless (multimedia) transmission have been examined in. At the PHY and MAC layers, significant gains have been reported by adopting cross-layer optimization, such as link adaptation, channelaware scheduling, and optimal power control. However, these contributions are aimed at improving throughput or reducing power consumption without taking into consideration multimedia content and traffic characteristics. Explicit consideration of multimedia characteristics and requirements can further enhance the important advances achieved in cross-layer design at the lower layers. Possible solutions and architectures for cross-layer optimized multimedia transmission have been proposed in.
To provide QoS for multimedia applications, the IEEE 802.11 Working Group has currently defined a new supplement to the existing legacy 802.11 MAC sublayer, called IEEE 802.11e. Note that even though emerging MAC standards provide QoS support, there are no QoS guarantees for multimedia applications, and systemwide resource management is not always fair or efficient. This is due to the time-varying nature of the wireless channel and multimedia characteristics, and also the lack of cross-layer awareness of the application and MAC layers about each other.
CROSS-LAYER WIRELESS MULTIMEDIA TRANSMISSION:
BRIEF REVIEW OF ADAPTATION AND PROTECTION STRATEGIES AT DIFFERENT LAYERS
Numerous solutions have been proposed for efficient multimedia streaming over wireless networks. Potential solutions for robust wireless multimedia transmission over error-prone networks include application-layer packetization, (rate-distortion optimized) scheduling, joint source-channel coding, error resilience, and error concealment mechanisms. An excellent review of channel-adaptive multimedia streaming research is provided in.
Transport issues for wireless (multimedia) transmission have been examined in. At the PHY and MAC layers, significant gains have been reported by adopting cross-layer optimization, such as link adaptation, channelaware scheduling, and optimal power control. However, these contributions are aimed at improving throughput or reducing power consumption without taking into consideration multimedia content and traffic characteristics. Explicit consideration of multimedia characteristics and requirements can further enhance the important advances achieved in cross-layer design at the lower layers. Possible solutions and architectures for cross-layer optimized multimedia transmission have been proposed in.
To provide QoS for multimedia applications, the IEEE 802.11 Working Group has currently defined a new supplement to the existing legacy 802.11 MAC sublayer, called IEEE 802.11e. Note that even though emerging MAC standards provide QoS support, there are no QoS guarantees for multimedia applications, and systemwide resource management is not always fair or efficient. This is due to the time-varying nature of the wireless channel and multimedia characteristics, and also the lack of cross-layer awareness of the application and MAC layers about each other.
Numerous solutions have been proposed for efficient multimedia streaming over wireless networks. Potential solutions for robust wireless multimedia transmission over error-prone networks include application-layer packetization, (rate-distortion optimized) scheduling, joint source-channel coding, error resilience, and error concealment mechanisms. An excellent review of channel-adaptive multimedia streaming research is provided in.
Transport issues for wireless (multimedia) transmission have been examined in. At the PHY and MAC layers, significant gains have been reported by adopting cross-layer optimization, such as link adaptation, channelaware scheduling, and optimal power control. However, these contributions are aimed at improving throughput or reducing power consumption without taking into consideration multimedia content and traffic characteristics. Explicit consideration of multimedia characteristics and requirements can further enhance the important advances achieved in cross-layer design at the lower layers. Possible solutions and architectures for cross-layer optimized multimedia transmission have been proposed in.
To provide QoS for multimedia applications, the IEEE 802.11 Working Group has currently defined a new supplement to the existing legacy 802.11 MAC sublayer, called IEEE 802.11e. Note that even though emerging MAC standards provide QoS support, there are no QoS guarantees for multimedia applications, and systemwide resource management is not always fair or efficient. This is due to the time-varying nature of the wireless channel and multimedia characteristics, and also the lack of cross-layer awareness of the application and MAC layers about each other.
CROSS-LAYER WIRELESS MULTIMEDIA TRANSMISSION:
BRIEF REVIEW OF ADAPTATION AND PROTECTION STRATEGIES AT DIFFERENT LAYERS
Numerous solutions have been proposed for efficient multimedia streaming over wireless networks. Potential solutions for robust wireless multimedia transmission over error-prone networks include application-layer packetization, (rate-distortion optimized) scheduling, joint source-channel coding, error resilience, and error concealment mechanisms. An excellent review of channel-adaptive multimedia streaming research is provided in.
Transport issues for wireless (multimedia) transmission have been examined in. At the PHY and MAC layers, significant gains have been reported by adopting cross-layer optimization, such as link adaptation, channelaware scheduling, and optimal power control. However, these contributions are aimed at improving throughput or reducing power consumption without taking into consideration multimedia content and traffic characteristics. Explicit consideration of multimedia characteristics and requirements can further enhance the important advances achieved in cross-layer design at the lower layers. Possible solutions and architectures for cross-layer optimized multimedia transmission have been proposed in.
To provide QoS for multimedia applications, the IEEE 802.11 Working Group has currently defined a new supplement to the existing legacy 802.11 MAC sublayer, called IEEE 802.11e. Note that even though emerging MAC standards provide QoS support, there are no QoS guarantees for multimedia applications, and systemwide resource management is not always fair or efficient. This is due to the time-varying nature of the wireless channel and multimedia characteristics, and also the lack of cross-layer awareness of the application and MAC layers about each other.
Numerous solutions have been proposed for efficient multimedia streaming over wireless networks. Potential solutions for robust wireless multimedia transmission over error-prone networks include application-layer packetization, (rate-distortion optimized) scheduling, joint source-channel coding, error resilience, and error concealment mechanisms. An excellent review of channel-adaptive multimedia streaming research is provided in.
Transport issues for wireless (multimedia) transmission have been examined in. At the PHY and MAC layers, significant gains have been reported by adopting cross-layer optimization, such as link adaptation, channelaware scheduling, and optimal power control. However, these contributions are aimed at improving throughput or reducing power consumption without taking into consideration multimedia content and traffic characteristics. Explicit consideration of multimedia characteristics and requirements can further enhance the important advances achieved in cross-layer design at the lower layers. Possible solutions and architectures for cross-layer optimized multimedia transmission have been proposed in.
To provide QoS for multimedia applications, the IEEE 802.11 Working Group has currently defined a new supplement to the existing legacy 802.11 MAC sublayer, called IEEE 802.11e. Note that even though emerging MAC standards provide QoS support, there are no QoS guarantees for multimedia applications, and systemwide resource management is not always fair or efficient. This is due to the time-varying nature of the wireless channel and multimedia characteristics, and also the lack of cross-layer awareness of the application and MAC layers about each other.
Wednesday, 31 October 2007
WiMAX today and tomorrow
WiMAX today
Despite the all-round occurrence of the WiMAX still in the design even in the most developed countries, introduction of the standard is progressing at an enviable pace. Quite recently, last autumn during the days of Intel Developers' Forum in the building of Russian Academy of Sciences the experimental network IEEE802.16-2004 was demonstrated in action. And last week in Kiev, Ukraine, Ukrainian advanced technologies commissioned the first in the ex-USSR network of wireless broadband access to Internet on the base of the WiMAX technology. From that week onwards, the network by "Ukrainian Advanced Technologies" dubbed ALTERNET started rendering services of wireless broadband access to Internet on the base of WiMAX using client devices built on the Intel PRO/Wireless 5116 chipset.
The services are about fixed wireless access to Internet using the WiMAX technology based on the Alvarion client equipment built on the Intel PRO/Wireless 5116 chipset. They are offered to companies and private persons who are based in the areas of poorly developed or outdated cable infrastructure. "Ukrainian Advanced Technologies" intends to provide its services on a turn-key basis in merely two days after the first customer's call. Today, you can subscribe to the services in Kiev and Kharkov. There are plans for the first quarter of the next year to establish regional offices to render the access services in Dnepropetrovsk, Odessa, Donetsk, and Lvov. On the whole, it is planned to provide WiMAX connection facilities in all the regional centers of Ukraine by the end of 2006.
In fact, you shouldn't think that some sort of a WiMAX anomaly is going on in the Ukraine. Introduction of WiMAX networks is going on continuously these days, announcements of launching such networks are appearing every day, and only in Russia this issue is being solved extremely slowly (read below).
Modern hardware for WiMAX
As regards the capabilities of PRO/Wireless 5116 chipset officially presented by Intel in April 2005, it proved to be one of the first products in the industry with support for the WiMAX standard. This Intel chipset is made in a 360-pin PBGA casing, offers functionality needed to implement establish economical high-speed wireless modems for the home and office. Solutions based on PRO/Wireless 5116 allow providing broadband access to the Internet in remote areas where no DSL or cable networks are there and establish communication between tasks distributed a few miles apart.
Combined with a RF module and a third-party amplifier, the SoC system Intel PRO/Wireless 5116 with support for IEEE 802.16-2004, formerly known as the Rosedale, provides the possibility to use WiMAX networks for a wide circle of users.. At the same time, the Intel PRO/Wireless 5116 interface supports not only external but internal solutions, e.g. WiMAX subscriber modems and home-based gateways.
Intel PRO/Wireless 5116 (Rosedale)
WiMAX Forum. Intel's role in establishing the standard
For the purposes of testing, standardization, certification and marketing of WiMAX products, the WiMAX Forum industry alliance has been established. It's just this alliance that issues "WiMAX Forum Certified" verdicts. By now, the number of WiMAX Forum members is rapidly approaching to 200, and over one quarter of the number are operators who are rendering provider services based on the WiMAX technology.
Once of the most active member of the WiMAX Forum alliance is Intel who participates in all the undertakings – from problem statement up to the ratification of standards and development of end equipment. Intel is now cooperating with companies who have deployed pre-standardized WiMAX broadband wireless networks in over than 125 countries. They offer a wide range of options - from stationary systems of wireless access up to enterprise-scale point-to-point data transmission systems.
For the purposes of testing, standardization, certification and marketing of WiMAX products, the WiMAX Forum industry alliance has been established. It's just this alliance that issues "WiMAX Forum Certified" verdicts. By now, the number of WiMAX Forum members is rapidly approaching to 200, and over one quarter of the number are operators who are rendering provider services based on the WiMAX technology. Apart from Intel Corporation, other known companies participate in the WiMAX Forum, among them Airspan Networks, Alvarion, Aperto Networks, Ensemble Communications, Fujitsu Microelectronics America, Nokia, OFDM Forum, Proxim Corporation, Wi-LAN Inc. and others.
One of the most active member of the WiMAX Forum alliance is Intel who participates in all the undertakings – from problem statement up to the ratification of standards and development of end equipment. Intel is now cooperating with companies who have deployed pre-standardized WiMAX broadband wireless networks in over than 125 countries. They offer a wide range of options - from stationary systems of wireless access up to enterprise-scale point-to-point data transmission systems.
Among the operators collaborating with Intel at the promoting of WiMAX solutions are AT&T (USA), Altitude Telecom (France), BT (U.K.), Brazil Telecom (Brazil), ETB (Columbia), Iberbanda (Spain), Millicom (Argentina), Qwest (USA), Sify (India), Speakeasy (USA), Telkom (South Africa), Telmex (Mexico), TowerStream (USA), and the already mentioned "Ukrainian Advanced Technologies" (Ukraine). The release of produce manufactured on the base of Intel PRO/Wireless 5116 has been announced by Airspan, Alvarion, Aperto Networks, Axxcelera Broadband Wireless, Gemtek, Huawei, Proxim Corporation, Redline Communications, Siemens Mobile, SR Telecom, and ZTE.
Remarkably, these days Motorola and Intel announced their joint plans for promoting the IEEE 802.16e-based WiMAX technology for mobile solutions and which is applicable to both stationary and wireless devices fir broadband communications. Apart from promoting the WiMAX standards, the joint plans of these companies include tests of mobile devices, networked and subscriber end equipment made by Motorola for compatibility to Intel's produce.
WiMAX in Russia
Late in October, the first in Russia seminar on using the WiMAX arranged by Intel was held in Nizhny Novgorod. The seminar gathered representatives, telecommunication companies, providers, developers and manufacturers of wireless communications equipment, as well as government institutions in charge of frequency regulations and licensing. During the event, Intel representatives demonstrated a model of operating network built on the base of the Intel Pro/Wireless 5116 chipset.
Alas - not all are as enthusiastic as Intel. As regards the real dates for introduction of a new backbone wireless standard in Russia, many analysts agree that formation of WiMAX networks in Russia will not start earlier than the summer of 2006. Many pledge to the incomplete certification for WiMAX equipment, many complain about the high price of first-generation WiMAX solutions, but in general there is a lack of intention from the side of providers to spend for a technology which is unlikely to pay back soon. In large cities where there are still more than enough facilities for fast-speed Internet access, the Wi-Fi capacity is still enough. As regards deployment of WiMAX networks somewhere in remote areas in Russia, no one is yet planning to do so at the first stage. Of course, there will be isolated instances of WiMAX network deployment, but we won't hear about them in the near future. But while there is little interest from administrative bodies and lack funding all these events will still be unique.
In a word, many agree that WiMAX networks are unlikely to go beyond the boundaries of large Russian cities earlier than 2009. At the same time, in the Net you can find a variety of contrary opinions stating that if introduction of WiMAX networks at the first stage proves successful, their number may go up as a snowball within short terms.
Perhaps I'd rather stop my today's story at the note of uncertainty. Early in 2006, the WiMAX standard is in for another epochal event and we'll hope that by that time the news on Russian market of WiMAX networks will be more optimistic.
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