Wireless communication is among the recent technologies that have been developed. According to Deal (2008), wireless network is computer network that is connected without the use of cables. It has made internet accessible to individuals in all locations hence the problem of internet access has been solved.
On the other hand, wired network has limitations in that it is difficult to spread it to different locations because of its static nature. However, it is sometimes preferred to wireless network. Wireless network makes it possible for the incorporation of the most recent technologies like Wi-Max and Wi-Fi which provide reliable, efficient and faster internet access. Based on these factors, wireless network has many advantages for its users.
Both wireless and wired networks are implemented through hardware systems. The hardware applied to implement wireless network is determined by the scope of the network and the importance of multiple access points. For instance, small wireless LAN is implemented through wireless broadcasting equipment that function as broadcasting channels.
The workstation computers are then connected through equipment that detects the signal relayed through wireless radio. The use of wireless LAN spreads spectrum technologies with the aim of enhancing end user mobility.
It utilizes Wi-Fi which makes coverage of large areas possible. In addition, it is less susceptible to obstacles. It is also effective in terms of signal transmission since it does not require cables, a factor that makes its transmission easy (Briere & Hurley, 2010).
One of the advantages of Wi-Fi is its scalability. Workstation PCs and other devices that have the capacity to detect signals from Wi-Fi normally establish a connection with Wi-Fi network through wireless access points. In home networks, wireless routers are used to increase accessibility. Router specifications make it possible for different devices to access home network.
Improvements in technology have led to the development of IP version six, which has the capacity to support up to 16 bit addresses. It also increases the number of IP addresses assigned to devices in Wi-Fi network.
A high number of IP addresses is not mandatory for Wi-Fi networks to work as anticipated since they increase the network load. This problem is solved through the installation of multiple access points in Wi-Fi networks which distribute the load responsible for altering network functionality in cases of single access points (Deal, 2008).
Employing two routers in home networks has a primary role of increasing access points in the networks. Basically, this increases the security and performance of the network. In addition, routers offer an effective way through which home networks are expanded. They also eliminate the burden of network load.
Multiple routers make it possible for home networks to undergo segmentation which is crucial in network management since it enables different configuration of segments based on what the users of individual segments require. Among the recent home networking trends is the need for integration of wireless and wired networks, which is the only appropriate method through which hybrid networks can be established.
Two routers can be used to host wireless and wired networks. Hybrid networks may be applied to raise the network capacity by combining the benefits of wireless networks with those of wired networks.
There are certain network situations that make the use of two routers necessary. For instance, the practicality of having Ethernet cables from the original router when there is a long distance between the host machines and the router is often difficult.
The problem is solved by linking two routers, where the primary and secondary routers are connected to form an entirely different network segment. Generally, multiple routers are vital in home networks since they address problems related to network performance, network stability, network security and network interactivity (Briere & Hurley, 2010).
Wi-Fi network is comprised of an infrastructure mode that establishes connectivity between wired and wireless networks through Ethernet cables. One of the advantages of this infrastructure mode is that it provides a single connection point for WLAN network clients. During its implementation, wireless access point is usually a key requirement.
For a successful connection of wide LAN, all the clients and points of access under the wireless network are established to utilize a common Service Set Identifier (SSID). SSID functions as the network name under the LAN and its access is restricted through encryption.
The access points for the wireless host machines are then linked with an Ethernet wired network with the aim of enabling the wireless hosts to access network resources like drives, printers and other network resources.
The use of a common SSID facilitates inclusion of more wireless access points to the Wide LAN, which increases the network infrastructure access and enables the network to support many wireless networks (Deal, 2008).
The advantages of network infrastructure mode include high network security which is enhanced through SSID encryption, increased scalability of the network since WLAN supports many wireless networks and enhanced platforms of network management among many other advantages. The only drawback associated with networking infrastructure is increased hardware acquisition costs.
References
Briere, D. & Hurley, P. (2010). Wireless Home Networking For Dummies. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Deal, R. (2008). Cisco Certified Network Associate study guide (exam 640-802). New York: McGraw-Hill Professional.