Wireless Networks – Module 1 Notes (Slides 1–51)
1. Introduction
A network is a collection of computers, servers, and devices connected to share data and
resources.
Wireless networks allow devices to communicate without physical cables using radio
waves.
Objectives:
- Remove need for wires
- Provide mobility and portability
- Easy deployment
- Technologies include cellular, satellite, Bluetooth, RFID
2. Wireless Network Architecture
Defines elements participating in wireless communication across geographic areas.
Components:
Mobile Host:
Portable devices that move while maintaining connectivity.
Examples: smartphones, laptops, tablets, sensors.
Characteristics:
- Mobility
- Limited power and processing
Role:
- Initiate/receive data
- Support roaming and handoff
Fixed Host:
Stationary devices usually connected through wired networks.
Examples: servers, desktop computers.
Role:
- Provide services and data to mobile hosts.
Access Network:
Provides last-hop wireless connectivity between mobile hosts and core network.
Components:
- Access stations (APs, base stations)
Functions:
- Radio transmission
- Authentication
- Resource allocation
- Handoff support
Core Network:
Backbone connecting access networks.
Functions:
- Routing and switching
- Mobility management
- Session management
- Security and billing
Key Features:
- Mobility support
- Scalability
- Seamless connectivity
- Efficient resource management
3. Classification of Wireless Networks
Based on Range:
WBAN – Body Area Network (few meters)
WPAN – Personal Area Network (~10 m)
WLAN – Local Area Network (Wi-Fi)
WMAN – Metropolitan Area Network (WiMAX)
WWAN – Wide Area Network (cellular)
Based on Topology:
Infrastructure networks
Ad hoc networks
Based on Mobility:
Static wireless networks
Mobile wireless networks
4. Wireless Communication Problems
Shared medium – spectrum limited and shared
High Bit Error Rate – due to interference
Low transmission power – battery limits
Signal attenuation – signal weakens with distance
Multipath fading – reflections create interference
Noise – reduces signal quality
5. Networking Issues in Wireless Networks
Traffic and Resource Allocation:
Traffic contract defines:
- Data rate
- Delay
- Jitter
- Packet loss
Parameters:
Peak Data Rate (PCR)
Sustained Rate (SCR)
Burst Size (MBS)
Maximum Delay
Jitter
Loss Rate
Process:
Traffic classification
Admission control
Resource allocation
Traffic Control:
Traffic policing – drop excess packets
Traffic shaping – delay packets smoothly
Token Bucket Algorithm:
Tokens generated at fixed rate.
Packets transmitted only if tokens available.
Flow Control:
Controls sending rate to avoid buffer overflow.
Late packets in real-time apps may be discarded.
Error Control:
Error detection – CRC, checksum
Retransmission – ARQ
Forward Error Correction – FEC
Hybrid ARQ – combination of both
Security and Privacy:
Threats:
- Eavesdropping
- Unauthorized access
- Man-in-the-middle attacks
Solutions:
- Encryption (WPA2/WPA3)
- Authentication
- VPN
- Secure protocols
Power Management:
Battery constraints require energy-efficient communication.
Techniques:
Sleep modes
Duty cycling
Power-aware routing
Transmission power control
Mobility Management:
Device moves between cells.
Handover maintains continuous connectivity.
Routing:
Determines best path for data.
Goals:
- Improve throughput
- Reduce delay
- Maintain connectivity
QoS Management:
Ensures bandwidth, delay, jitter and packet loss requirements are met.
Techniques:
Admission control
Resource allocation
Traffic shaping
Scheduling
Radio Access:
Controls how users share wireless medium.
Functions:
Multiple access methods (FDMA, TDMA, CDMA, OFDMA)
Channel allocation
Medium access control
Interference management
Radio resource management
6. Wireless Networking Standards
IEEE standards define rules for wireless communication.
Examples:
IEEE 802.11 – Wi-Fi
IEEE 802.15 – Bluetooth
IEEE 802.16 – WiMAX
Cellular standards – 3G, 4G, 5G