Wireless network

Wireless NetworkingBy Kelly Lockridge and Matt Glover

What is wireless

• A wireless LAN or WLAN is a wireless local area network that uses radio waves as its carrier. The last link with the users is wireless, to give a network connection to all users in a building or campus. The backbone network usually uses cables. Wireless networks have redesigned schools and has had a large impact on student learning.

Wireless Networking

• As school media centers continue to transform into digital learning spaces, they become more dependent on connected learning. Children can be given better access to their curriculum entitlement by taking facilities to them where they are needed.

Wireless Networking

• Wireless networks in schools are a growing trend. With devices as bring your own device, laptops, smart phones, Apple TVs, Rokus, and video conferences systems are changing the traditional media center.

Wireless Networking

• Wireless alternatives have come on strong in the last decade. Wireless data networks (WLANs) may be based on microwave, IR (infrared) or RF (radio frequency) technologies. In total, wireless is increasingly viable--and in specific instances, compelling--for mainstream data networking in K-12 schools.

Benefits of Wireless LAN

• Supports E-learning• Security• Cost• Installation speed and simplicity• Installation flexibility• Mobility


Installation speed and simplicity• No cable to pull• Eliminates current architectural obstacles• Few transmitters/receivers for multiple users.• One of the most common network problems is

having cable failures.


Cost• Mobile devices are less expensive than

computer workstations especially for library media funding.

• The need to have to run cables through walls and ceilings are eliminated with a wireless LAN.


• Example: A library has $13,000 budget to spend on a network.

• Wired Network = $700 for a desktop computer and $300 per computer as the cost for the wired connection. $1,000 per user. This would allow 13 users for a wired connection in the library.


• Example: A school has $13,000 budget to spend on a network.

• Wireless Network = A possibility of 15 to 16 access points that will handle up to 750 users. These users could bring their own device to the library.


Installation Flexibility• In the library, the network goes where wires

cannot. With wireless, the library is not constrained by expensive walls. With the flexibility of wireless networking, it is easy to add more computers or devices in the library.


Mobility• No matter if we’re at home, at work, in school

or the library, we’re always connected. Everywhere we go, we demand it and in many cases expect it. Over the last 7 -10 years the explosion of mobile devices and applications has changed how we’re accessing our networks. What used to be primarily Ethernet is being replaced by wireless or (mobility).


Mobility• Wireless on-the-spot access can help library

patrons quickly search for new references in a mobile digital catalog while they are browsing the physical shelf.


Mobility• In the library, students have access to real-

time information with wireless and flexibility to move from one place to another while still connected.


Security• WLANs are protected with strong

authentication and encryption technology. They are able to identify and apply security policies based on who the user is, what type of device, how it is authenticating, and when and where it is connecting.


Security• Wireless networks are improving as the times

change. Wireless networks are now meeting the needs of BYOD, which typically breaks traditional security system. This allows an opportunity for students to have a variety of devices in the library.


Security• These new improvements to wireless

networking has application control so not only can you see what applications your users are using, but also control which ones they are allowed to use based on role. These setting will allow the media specialist to manage applications and analyze how they are being used.


Supporting E-learning• Radio based (Wi-Fi) wireless networks and

mobile computers go hand in hand. The mobility of the computer is supported by the network link continuing to work as the student moves from place to place.


Supporting E-learning• On average today’s students are using between 3-5

devices and it’s becoming the expectation that our schools not only support those devices but to utilize them to enhance the curriculum being taught inside the classroom. E-mail, e-books, and e-learning seems to be e-oriented these days, especially in school libraries. When middle and high school students were surveyed, they answered that school Wi-Fi was one of the things that they most desired.


Supporting E-learning• With wireless networks, students can check

out an e-book on tablets or laptops with instant results. Students are able to research papers, view webinars and have access to incredible learning resources.

Components of Wireless Network

Access Points• Wireless device

connects to the access point to connect to the network

• Access points acts as a hub to connect two wireless devices


Access Points• In computer networking, a wireless access

point (AP) is a device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network using Wi-Fi, or related standards. The AP usually connects to a router as a standalone device, but it can also be an integral component of the router itself.


• IEEE 802.11 is a set of media access control (MAC) and physical layer (PHY) specifications for implementing wireless local area network (WLAN) computer communication. They are different types of 802.11 LAN standards.


1. 802.11g• Pros of 802.11g - fast maximum speed; signal

range is good and not easily obstructed• Cons of 802.11g - costs more than 802.11b;

appliances may interfere on the unregulated signal frequency


2. 802.11n• Pros of 802.11n - fastest maximum speed and

best signal range; more resistant to signal interference from outside sources

• Cons of 802.11n - standard is not yet finalized; costs more than 802.11g; the use of multiple signals may greatly interfere with nearby 802.11b/g based networks.


3. 802.11ac• Wireless technology continues to improve.

802.11ac is an excellent example of what the latest wireless network technology has to offer.

• 802.11ac offers faster speeds to its users

Ideal Library Network Diagram

References

Tyre, T. (1999). Wired vs wireless: Fitting the pieces. Curriculum Administrator, 35(5), 30.

FREDRICK, K. k. (2015). BYOD and 1:1--Living the Mobile Life. School Library Monthly, 31(5), 24-26.

How Much Does a School Wireless Network Cost vs. a Wired Network? (n.d.). Retrieved May 22, 2015, from http://www.securedgenetworks.com/strategy-blog/How-Much-Does-a-School-Wireless-Network-Cost-vs-a-Wired-Network

Future-Proofing Your School Wireless Network with 802.11ac. (n.d.). Retrieved May 25, 2015, from http://www.securedgenetworks.com/mobility-blog/future-proofing-your-school-wireless-network-with-802.11ac

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