How does a wireless network operate?
			SIMPLE VERSION
			WiFi, 802.11 networking, and  wireless networking can be used interchangably. Wireless networks may be used when copper or fiber-optic cables are not feasible.  A wireless Wide Area Network (WAN) can be created in room or a building using an access point.   For coverage of a larger area such as a campus, multiple access points may be used. Wireless networks consist of a wireless access point or multiple wireless access points that broadcast a signal to computers with wireless cards.  The wireless access point must be connected to a router or wiring hub.
				TECHNICAL VERSION
				Wireless Wide Area Networks (WANs) use radio waves to send signals to wireless devices.  These radio waves are in the form of frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) or direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS).  Wireless computer networks can send information from 1 MHz to over 100 MHz.  The bands on which these waves are found are 2.5 GHz and 5.8 GHz.  The higher number band is exclusively for medical, industrial, and scientific use (Center for Online Professional Education, 2002). Wireless Local Area Networks (LANs) generally use the IEEE 802 series standards and are, in fact, an extension of Ethernet into the wireless domain.  Most LANs are created by using access points to transmit signals in a specific area.  The wireless access point is usually mounted high on the wall or in the ceiling to provide the best connectivity (Derfler and Freed, 2003). Because security is very important on a wireless network, wireless LANs use authentication and encryption to help keep the network safe from harm.  For example, an access point will only allow computers with a certain MAC address to connect to it.  This MAC address is burned into microchips during the manufacturing process and is very difficult to imitate.  In more secure wireless environments, public key authentication as well as fingerprint and retinal scans may be used to protect the network from unauthorized use or attack.  (Derfler and Freed, 2003). There are many ways to configure a wireless network.  A person can create a wireless network at home for personal use.  Also, many businesses provide wireless networks within their buildings.  Finally, many international busineses are now using satellite technology to connect their wireless devices woldwide (Derfler and Freed, 2003).