Wired and wireless networking

Networks can be linked either with cables and wires or radio waves.

Wired networks are linked by Ethernet cables, phone lines or high-speed optic cables.

Wireless networks use electromagnetic waves, such as radio waves, to transmit data.

The main types of wireless networks are:

• Satellites – for long distances
• WiMAX - for connecting Wi-Fi hotspots
• Wi-Fi - for medium-range distances
• Bluetooth – for short distances
• GSM – for mobile phones

Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that uses radio waves to provide high-speed network and Internet connections which allows creation of WLANs - wireless local area networks. To build a WLAN you need access points - radio-based receiver-transmitters and wireless adapters installed in your computer.

Hotspot is a specific geographic location in which an access point provides public wireless broadband network services to mobile visitors through a WLAN. Hotspots are often located in heavily populated places such as airports, train stations, libraries, marinas, conventions centres and hotels.

Wired LANs are more difficult to install, but they are cheaper, faster and more reliable. Wireless networks let you move from one access point to another but they are less secure.

To set up a home wireless LAN you need a computer equipped with a wireless adapter or wireless card, a wireless access point (a wireless router) and a broadband internet connection.