How This Book Is Organized
This book covers all aspects of wireless networks, with emphasis on the unique attributes of wireless systems. The first three chapters provide the basic building blocks for a better understanding of the different types of wireless networks that the subsequent chapters describe. The final chapter offers details on securing wireless networks.
Chapter 1, "The Wireless World: An Introduction to Concepts"? This chapter fully defines a wireless network and briefly defines the various types. Many examples of wireless network applications are given with discussion of resulting benefits.
Chapter 2, "Wireless System Architecture: How Wireless Works"? This chapter offers a broad explanation of the various components of a wireless network. By illustrating how information flows through the network, this chapter provides an excellent basis for understanding how different types of wireless networks operate.
Chapter 3, "Radio Frequency and Light Signal Fundamentals: The Invisible Medium"? This chapter details how radio frequency and light signals carry information through the air medium. These are the primary elements that define a wireless network.
Chapter 4, "Wireless PANs: Networks for Small Places"? This chapter explains the components, technologies, and configurations of a wireless personal-area network (PAN).
Chapter 5, "Wireless LANs: Networks for Buildings and Campuses"? This chapter explains the components, technologies, and configurations of a wireless local-area network (LAN).
Chapter 6, "Wireless MANs: Networks for Connecting Buildings and Remote Areas"? This chapter explains the components, technologies, and configurations of a wireless metropolitan-area network (MAN).
Chapter 7, "Wireless WANs: Networks for Worldwide Connections Resources"? This chapter explains the components, technologies, and configurations of a wireless wide-area network (WAN).
Chapter 8, "Wireless Network Security: Protecting Information Resources"? This chapter describes potential security threats to and countermeasures for wireless networks. When installing a wireless network, security is important because of the nature of wireless signals.
Appendix A, "Answers to Chapter Review Questions"? This appendix contains answers and explanations to the chapter review questions that appear at the end of each chapter.
Glossary? The glossary is a tool that you can easily reference as you come across key terms throughout the book.
