IEEE 802.11/WiFi

The IEEE 802.11 wireless standard was developed for indoor local area networks, but is also frequently used outdoors. In typical installation, one or more PCs connect to a shared access point, forming a point-to-multi point network, but it can also be used for point-to-point links. For example, many people use 802.11 to share a home Internet connection.

There are three transmission standards, 802.11a, b and g. Each has different characteristics, for example using different frequencies and transmitting at different speeds.

The commercial success of WiFi is due to standardization and the fact that it operates in license free frequency bands. Most radio frequencies, for example those used by radio and TV stations, are licensed by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC). The FCC has set aside several frequency bands for license free transmission as long as power is limited to limit interference. 802.11 radios operate in these bands.

WiFi is a trade name belonging to an IEEE 802.11 trade association, the WiFi Alliance. Many technical standards have corresponding trade associations. In this case, manufacturers of 802.11 equipment formed the WiFi Alliance to help resolve standard differences, to publicize and market the technology, and to test and certify equipment as being standard compliant.

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