As a provider of professional IT services to many different businesses, the team at FX Technology has some real experience with wireless networks. From installing networks to troubleshooting, we’re more than familiar with the ins-and-outs of wireless networking technology for businesses and homes. In this blog, we’re going to take a quick look at the different types of wireless network and what distinguishes them from each other.
Personal Area Network
A wireless personal area network (WPAN) is a type of personal network focused on an individual device or workspace. A WPAN usually consists of things like smartphones, tablets, laptops or desktop computers that are all able to connect and communicate wirelessly within a limited area. This can be done in a number of scenarios, from a person working with multiple devices at a desk to wireless devices connected together in an operating theater.
Local Area Network
A wireless local area network (WLAN) is what most people who have worked in a modern office will be used to. Traditional LANs would consist of a number of computers throughout an office wired to each other, but more modern offices will have WiFi capabilities to cut down on cables and allow for more simple connectivity.
Ad Hoc Network
An ad-hoc network is similar to a WLAN but is typically created without being planned or mapped out first. This is often done through computers wirelessly connecting with each other to form a network without a router and for a specific purpose.
Metropolitan Area Network
A metropolitan area network is similar to a LAN, but covering a larger area. This type of wireless network is typically open to the public or a large group of people. For example, a campus-wide wireless network that’s available to students at a college or university.
Wide Area Network
Wide area networks and global area networks (WAN and GAN) are similar to MANs but cover a much greater area. A WAN will cover a specific geographical area by connecting LANs together. A GAN covers an even larger area, typically via satellite. Cellular networks are a common example of a wireless global area network. Satellite internet for areas without wired or fiber optic coverage is another.
Contact FX Tech About Wireless Networking?
Looking for reliable, low-profile, fully functioning wireless networking for your business? Talk to the team at FX Technology today. We offer a wide range of IT services, from networks to cloud storage, and we can bring you all the benefits of digital connectivity with none of the hassle. Take a look at our full range of IT solutions.