802.11 Wireless LAN Fundamentals

Chapter 3. 802.11 Physical Layer Technologies

The ratification of the 1999 802.11a and 802.11b standards transformed wireless LAN (WLAN) technology from a niche solution for the likes of barcode scanners to a generalized solution for portable, low-priced, interoperable network access. Today, many vendors offer 802.11a and 802.11b clients and access points that provide performance comparable to wired Ethernet. The lack of a wired network connection gives users the freedom to be mobile as they use their devices. Although standardization has been key, the use of unlicensed frequencies, where a costly and time-consuming licensing process is not required, has also contributed to a rapid and pervasive spread of the technology.

802.11 as a standards body ...