2.3 - Wireless Network Technologies

Question 1

What are the frequency ranges used by 802.11 networks?

Answer 1

802.11 networks use the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency ranges. Some standards use both ranges for communication.

Question 2

What is the purpose of separate channels within the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency ranges?

Answer 2

Channels are groups of frequencies assigned by the IEEE to help identify and use specific frequency ranges. Using different channels for multiple access points helps reduce interference.

Question 3

Which governmental regulations affect 802.11 networks?

Answer 3

Governmental agencies regulate the wireless spectrum by dictating which frequencies can be used, specifying maximum power levels, and setting limits on interference.

Question 4

What are the available channels in the 2.4 GHz band?

Answer 4

The 2.4 GHz band commonly has three channels: 1, 6, and 11. Each has a 20 MHz bandwidth.

Question 5

What is the advantage of using the 5 GHz band over the 2.4 GHz band?

Answer 5

The 5 GHz band provides more channels and wider bandwidths (20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz, 160 MHz), which reduces congestion and improves throughput.

Question 6

What are the largest bandwidths available in the 5 GHz spectrum?

Answer 6

The largest bandwidths available in the 5 GHz spectrum are 80 MHz and 160 MHz, with 160 MHz sometimes utilizing non-contiguous frequency areas.

Question 7

What frequency band does Bluetooth use?

Answer 7

Bluetooth uses the 2.4 GHz ISM band (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical).

Question 8

What is the typical range for consumer Bluetooth devices?

Answer 8

Consumer Bluetooth devices generally operate within a range of about 10 meters.

Question 9

How does industrial Bluetooth differ from consumer Bluetooth in terms of range?

Answer 9

Industrial Bluetooth can extend the range to over 100 meters, whereas consumer Bluetooth devices typically have a range of about 10 meters.