What is WLAN?

WLAN, (Wireless Local Area Network), is a high-speed wireless technology for accessing the Internet or corporate intranet. Two or more WLAN-enabled devices such as Nokia 9500 Communicators or WLAN-enabled laptops can also make an independent connection between each other.

The Wi-Fi Alliance has developed specifications for three common WLAN implementations - 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11a. Most WLAN networks today are based on these three standards. As a result, WiFi and WLAN are almost interchangeable terms.

Versions of WLAN:

802.11b: the most common type of WLAN today, operating in the 2.4GHz band. Top transfer speed is 11 Mbps.

802.11g: also operates at 2.4GHz, but transports data over improved and faster protocols. Top transfer speed is 54 Mbps.

802.11a: operates at 5GHz. Uses the same protocols as 802.11g. Top transfer speed is 54 Mbps.

How does it work?

A remote worker can use WLAN technology to access the Internet through public access points ('hotspots') provided by service providers. When in the office, they may access WLAN through wireless access points installed on the corporate intranet. In enterprise environments, WLANs are usually complemented by security mechanisms, such as VPN (Virtual Private Network).

About WLAN

Select Nokia Business devices, for example the Nokia 9500 Communicator and Nokia D211, incorporate WLAN networking technology.

What are the benefits of WLAN?

• High speed access without cables
• Complements mobile networks when high speed access is required and the computer or mobile device is moving
• Wi-Fi Alliance standardisation has established steady interoperability between WLAN devices from different vendors