In this article, we’ll explore the differences between WiFi5 vs WiFi6 to help you determine which network device support is right for you. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision, whether you’re setting up a new network or upgrading an existing one.

Speed and Performance

One of the main differences between WiFi5 vs WiFi6 is their maximum data transfer speeds.

WiFi5: A Reliable Workhorse

WiFi5 made some big upgrades over WiFi4. It was faster, had better range, and handled lots of devices more smoothly. With speeds up to 3.5 Gbps, WiFi5 was a game-changer for homes and businesses. It runs on the 5 GHz band, cutting down interference for a more stable connection.

WiFi6: The Next Generation

WiFi6 builds on what WiFi5 provides and kicks it up a notch. With speeds of up to 9.6 Gbps – almost three times faster than WiFi5, it’s a game-changer. Perfect for 4K streaming, gaming, and virtual reality. Plus, WiFi6 rocks on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, making it awesome in busy spots.

Efficiency and Capacity

Another major difference between WiFi5 and WiFi6 is their efficiency and capacity.

WiFi5: Solid Performance

WiFi5 brought in MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output) tech, letting many devices chat with the router at once. It was a big jump from the old standard that managed just one device. Yet, with more gadgets connecting, WiFi5 started feeling the strain.

WiFi6: Designed for the Modern World

WiFi6 takes WiFi5 up a notch with some cool new tech. For example, there’s this thing called OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) that helps the router break channels into smaller bits. This means more devices can jump on without any lag. And, WiFi6 boosts battery life for gadgets with Target Wake Time (TWT).

Related: What is the difference between WiFi 6 and WiFi 6E?

Security Enhancements

Another significant improvement of WiFi6 is its enhanced security features.

WiFi5: WPA3 Support

WiFi5 backs WPA2 security, which has been the go-to for years. But as cyber threats rise, we need stronger security. WiFi5 gadgets can now rock WPA3 with updates, beefing up protection vs. brute-force attacks and boosting encryption.

WiFi6: Built-In WPA3

WiFi6 includes WPA3 security protocol as a standard feature, ensuring that all WiFi6 devices come with the latest security features right from the start. This means a more secure network setup. WPA3 provides stronger encryption and improved protection against password-cracking attempts.

Compatibility and Future-Proofing

One of the main concerns with upgrading to WiFi6 is compatibility with existing devices.

WiFi5: Established and Widely Used

WiFi5 is super popular and works with a ton of devices. It’s a solid choice for good performance without needing all the newest bells and whistles. Many devices, like older smartphones, laptops, and smart home gadgets, are all set up to work smoothly with WiFi5.

WiFi6: Preparing for the Future

If you want to future-proof your network, WiFi6 is the go-to choice. It’s built to handle the growing number of devices in homes and offices. Opting for WiFi6 partnered with an Ubiquiti Access Point U6 Plus, guarantees your network can handle new tech and faster speeds.

WiFi5 vs WiFi6 – Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between WiFi5 vs WiFi6 comes down to what you need. If you’ve got tons of devices and want top internet speed with the latest security, go for WiFi6. But if you just need a solid, widely compatible network, WiFi5 is still a great pick. Think about what you need now and down the road to pick the best fit for you.

The below given comparative account of features will help you to choose the one:

Download the comparison table: WiFi5 vs WiFi6

WiFi 6 introduces several enhancements over WiFi 5, such as higher data rates, improved efficiency, reduced latency, and better performance in crowded environments. These improvements make WiFi 6 more suitable for modern demands like streaming high-resolution video, online gaming, and supporting multiple devices simultaneously.

Keep going! Feel free to delve into our wide array of articles covering various topics.

What is Zigbee Protocol?

Zigbee is a wireless protocol that enables smart devices to communicate with each other over a Personal Area Network (PAN). It is designed to be a low-cost, low-power solution for home automation and control. Zigbee operates in the 2.4GHz frequency band, the same as WiFi, and uses the IEEE 802.15.4 standard for physical and media access control.

Zigbee Stack

The Zigbee protocol stack is comprised of four layers: the physical layer, the MAC layer, the network layer, and the application layer. The physical layer is tasked with transmitting and receiving data through wireless signals, while the MAC layer manages access control and data framing. The Zigbee network layer takes care of routing data between devices within the network, and the application layer defines the device’s specific functions and features.

Zigbee Network Components

A typical Zigbee network consists of three main components: the Zigbee Coordinator (ZC), Zigbee Router (ZR), and Zigbee End Device (ZED).

• The Zigbee Coordinator is the central hub of the network and is responsible for setting up and maintaining the network, adding devices, and managing communications between devices. There can only be one Coordinator in a Zigbee network, and it must be permanently powered.
• Zigbee Routers are AC mains-powered devices that act as intermediate devices in the network. They provide the backbone of the Zigbee network by routing communications between devices to create a reliable and efficient network.
• Zigbee End Devices are typically battery-powered devices that can only send or receive data. They cannot perform routing tasks and can only communicate with Routers or directly with the Coordinator. Examples of Zigbee End Devices include motion sensors, door sensors, temperature sensors, and door locks.

How Does Zigbee Work?

Zigbee builds upon the physical layer and media access control defined in the IEEE 802.15.4 standard. It uses a mesh networking topology, where devices communicate with each other through intermediate devices called Routers. This allows for multiple communication paths and increased network coverage.

Zigbee devices are designed to be simple and focused on specific tasks, such as motion sensing or dimming lights. This simplicity allows for better performance and reliability. The Zigbee network is self-configuring and self-healing, meaning that devices can automatically join and leave the network, and the network will adapt and reroute communication when needed.

Benefits of using Zigbee

There are several reasons why Zigbee is a popular choice for home automation systems:

• Lighting Options: Zigbee has a wide range of lighting options, including LED bulbs, color-changing LED strips, light switches, and dimmer modules. This makes it a versatile choice for creating different lighting scenes and effects in your home.
• Power Efficiency: Zigbee devices are designed to be energy-efficient, with some devices boasting up to 10 years of battery life. This makes Zigbee ideal for battery-powered devices such as motion sensors and door sensors.
• Optimized for Battery Devices: Zigbee is optimized for battery-powered devices by using a sleep mode when the devices are not in use. This helps to conserve battery power and extend the lifespan of the devices.
• Network Stability: Zigbee uses a mesh networking topology, which means that devices can communicate with each other through multiple paths. If one device goes offline, the network will automatically reroute the communication through another device, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.
• Security Features: Zigbee employs 128-bit AES encryption, the same level of security used in online banking services. This ensures that the communication between devices is secure and protected from unauthorized access.
• Firmware Updates: Zigbee supports over-the-air firmware updates, allowing devices to receive software updates without the need for manual intervention. This ensures that your devices are always up to date with the latest features and security patches.
• Scalability and Affordability: Zigbee networks can support thousands of devices in a single network, making it suitable for both small and large-scale home automation systems. Additionally, Zigbee devices are often more affordable compared to other technologies such as Z-Wave and WiFi.

Zigbee vs WiFi

Zigbee and WiFi are both wireless technologies, but they have different strengths and use cases. WiFi is well-suited for high-bandwidth tasks such as video streaming and online gaming, while Zigbee is designed for low-power, low-bandwidth applications.

WiFi networks are typically limited in terms of the number of devices they can support, usually between 32 and 64 devices. Zigbee, on the other hand, supports thousands of devices in a single network, making it ideal for home automation systems with a large number of devices.

When it comes to smart home applications, Zigbee is more power-efficient and can provide longer battery life for devices. Additionally, Zigbee’s mesh networking topology ensures better network coverage and stability compared to WiFi.

Zigbee vs Z-Wave

Zigbee and Z-Wave are two popular wireless protocols used in home automation systems. Both protocols have their own advantages and considerations.

Zigbee has a wider range of device options, especially for lighting applications. There are more Zigbee-based devices available in the market, including LED bulbs, light switches, and dimmer modules. Zigbee also supports a larger number of devices in a single network, making it suitable for larger homes or commercial applications.

Z-Wave, on the other hand, is known for its reliability and compatibility. Z-Wave devices typically have better range and signal penetration, making them suitable for larger homes with multiple floors or thick walls. Z-Wave also uses a different frequency band, which means it is less prone to interference from other wireless devices.

In general, it is recommended to choose a smart home controller that supports both Zigbee and Z-Wave to have the flexibility to choose devices from both protocols.

Conclusion

Zigbee is a wireless protocol that offers a range of benefits for home automation systems. With its extensive device options, power efficiency, scalability, and security features, Zigbee is a popular choice for creating a smart home ecosystem.

With Zigbee’s open standard and widespread adoption by major companies, it’s clear that Zigbee is here to stay and will continue to play a significant role in the future of smart homes.

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Top 10 wireless technology trends

What is Wireless Mesh Technology?

What is a Wireless Sensor Network (WSN)?

A wireless sensor network (WSN) is a network of small, low power and autonomous devices, also known as nodes, that are deployed in a given environment to measure and monitor various environmental parameters. These nodes are interconnected with each other and can communicate with each other either directly or indirectly. They are typically powered by batteries or other energy sources and can be used for a variety of applications, such as monitoring temperature, humidity, air quality, weather, and more.

The nodes of a WSN are typically equipped with sensors that measure various environmental parameters, such as temperature, humidity, air pressure, and more. The data collected by these sensors is then transmitted to a central node, known as a base station, which collects and processes the data. The base station can then transmit the data to a remote server, which can then be used for further analysis and processing.

Components of a WSN

A wireless sensor network consists of three main components: nodes, gateways, and a base station.

• The nodes, also known as sensor nodes, are small, low-power, autonomous devices that are deployed in the environment to measure and monitor various parameters. They are typically equipped with sensors, such as temperature, humidity, air pressure, and more, as well as a transmitter and receiver. The nodes communicate with each other through radio waves.
• The gateways are devices that are used to connect the nodes with the base station. They are typically used to extend the range of the nodes, as well as to provide additional processing power. The gateways also act as a bridge between the nodes and the base station, allowing the nodes to communicate with the base station.
• The base station is the central node in the WSN. It is responsible for collecting and processing the data from the nodes, as well as transmitting the data to a remote server. The base station is typically connected to the Internet, allowing the data to be transmitted to a remote server for further analysis and processing.

Wireless Sensor Network Architecture

The architecture of a WSN is typically divided into three layers: the physical layer, the data link layer, and the application layer.

• The physical layer is responsible for providing the nodes with a physical connection to the base station. It typically consists of radio waves, as well as other technologies such as infrared and Bluetooth.
• The data link layer is responsible for providing the nodes with a logical connection to the base station. It typically consists of protocols such as the IEEE 802.15.4 protocol.
• The application layer is responsible for providing the nodes with the ability to communicate with the base station. It typically consists of protocols such as the ZigBee protocol.

Types of WSN

Depending on the environment, there are five distinct types of Wireless Sensor Networks.

• Terrestrial Wireless Sensor Networks

Terrestrial  WSNs are employed to facilitate communication between base stations with great efficiency, and consist of thousands of wireless sensor nodes put in place either in an unstructured (ad hoc) or structured (Pre-planned) manner. The sensor nodes are scattered randomly throughout the designated area when they are released from a set plane in an ad hoc fashion.

The structured (Pre-planned) approach takes into account ideal positioning, grid location, and 2D, 3D positioning frameworks.

In this wireless sensor network (WSN), the battery power is very restricted; however, the battery is fitted with solar cells for a supplementary energy source. Energy efficiency of these WSNs is accomplished by employing low duty cycle operations, lowering any delays, and utilizing the most suitable routing, and many others.

• Underground Wireless Sensor Networks

The cost of establishing underground wireless sensor networks is higher than terrestrial WSNs due to the cost of equipment, installation, and upkeep. These networks are composed of several sensor nodes that are buried beneath the ground and keep track of underground conditions. For data transmission from the sensor nodes to the base station, additional sink nodes are put in place above the surface.

The battery power of the sensor nodes is constrained and it is hard to recharge them. Furthermore, the underground setting makes wireless communication hard to achieve due to the strong attenuation and signal-loss rate.

• Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks

Approximately 70% of the planet is covered by water, and this environment comprises numerous sensor nodes and vehicles. To acquire data from the sensors, autonomous underwater vehicles are employed. An issue with underwater communication is its slow transmission, as well as the bandwidth and sensor malfunctions.

When they are operating underwater, wireless sensor networks are fitted with a restricted power source that is not able to be recharged or replaced.

• Multimedia Wireless Sensor Networks

It has been suggested to use multimedia wireless sensor networks to be able to track and supervise events that can be described as multimedia, including video, audio, and images. These networks are constructed of low-cost nodes that have built-in microphones and cameras. These nodes are interconnected wirelessly so that data can be compressed, retrieved, and associated.

The problems associated with multimedia WSNs are heightened power usage, massive bandwidth requirements, data processing, and compressing processes. Furthermore, multimedia content necessitates a great deal of bandwidth in order for it to be transmitted properly and effortlessly.

• Mobile Wireless Sensor Networks 

Commonly known as MWSNs. A Mobile WSNs network contains a collection of sensor nodes that are able to move independently and interact with the surrounding environment. The mobile nodes are also equipped with the capacity to compute sense and communicate.

Mobile wireless sensor networks are far more flexible than those that are fixed in one spot. There are many advantages to using MWSNs instead of static wireless sensor networks, such as an enhanced coverage area, higher energy efficiency, and an increased channel capacity.

WSN Network Topologies

WSNs can be organized into different network topologies, depending on the application and the type of network. The most common types of network topologies are:

• Bus networks: Bus networks consist of multiple nodes that are connected to a single line. In this type of network, data is transmitted from one node to the next, following the path of the line.
• Star networks: Star networks consist of a single node, known as the master node, that is connected to multiple nodes. In this type of network, data is transmitted from the master node to the other nodes.
• Tree networks: Tree networks consist of multiple nodes that are organized into a tree structure. In this type of network, data is transmitted from one node to another along the branches of the tree.
• Mesh networks: Mesh networks consist of multiple nodes that are interconnected with each other. In this type of network, data is transmitted from one node to another until it reaches its destination.

Applications of WSN

WSNs have a wide range of applications:

• These networks can be utilized to monitor environmental conditions, like detecting forests, identifying animals, spotting flooding, forecasting, and predicting the weather. Additionally, they are also employed in commercial tasks such as predicting and monitoring seismic activity.
• Wireless sensor networks are commonly used for a variety of transport system applications including tracking traffic, dynamic routing control, and keeping an eye on parking areas, etc.
• Applications that are related to health, such as those which track and observe the activities of patients and medical professionals, make use of these networks.
• These networks are deployed in military applications such as tracking and environmental surveillance. Sensor nodes are dropped into the designated area and can be remotely operated by a user. They are also useful for tracking enemies and detecting security issues.
• These networks are utilized for quick emergency reactions, keeping track of industrial processes, automatically regulating the climate of a building, observing ecological systems and habitats, and observing the structural health of civil structures.
• The Wide Area Tracking System (WATS) is a prototype setup and a device designed to locate any ground-based nuclear weapon such as an atomic bomb. Furthermore, there are several other Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) that are implemented for the purpose of threat detection.

Benefits of WSN

WSNs are extremely beneficial for a variety of applications. 

• Low power and cost-effective, making them ideal for applications where power is limited and cost is a concern. 
• Highly scalable, meaning they can be easily expanded to accommodate more nodes or sensors. 
• Easy to deploy and can be used in a variety of environments, from urban to rural.

Challenges of WSN

Despite their many benefits, WSNs also have some challenges. 

• One of the biggest challenges is power management, as the nodes of the network need to be powered in order to operate. 
• Data transmission range of the nodes is limited, meaning that the network may need to be expanded in order to cover larger areas. 
• WSNs are vulnerable to security threats, as the data transmitted between the nodes is not encrypted.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to implement a WSN in your project, the first step is to understand the different components and architectures of WSNs, as well as the various applications and challenges. With the right understanding and implementation, you can leverage the power of WSNs to great effect.

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Top 10 wireless technology trends 

What are the types of Wireless Networks

Transmission of signals over channels can be performed in different ways. There are different multiplexing techniques such as Frequency division multiplexing (FDM) and Time division multiplexing (TDM) which allows transmission of signals in frequency and time slots. The end objective is effective utilization of expensive bandwidth hence sharing bandwidth among multiple users using multiplexing techniques.

In this article we will learn more about both multiplexing technologies and understand their advantages and limitations, purpose, and usage etc.

About FDM

Multiplexing was originated in telegraphy in 1870s and it is widely used in communications.  Telephone carrier multiplexing was developed by George Owen Squier in 1910. In Frequency division multiplexing technique, the available bandwidth of a single transmission medium is divided into multiple channels.

Each frequency channel is allocated to a device and by using modulation techniques the input signals are transmitted into frequency bands and combined to form a composite signal. Modulation carrying signals are referred as sub carriers. FDM is majorly used by TV networks and radio broadcasts.

FM and AM broadcasting are FDM based where each FM station has allocated frequency which is multiplexed to form a composite signal for transmission in air.

Frequency division multiplexing: Pros and Cons

PROS:

• It uses analogue signals
• It is simple and easy modulation technique
• Multiple signals can be transmitted simultaneously
• Demodulation is easier
• It does not require synchronization between sender and receiver

CONS:

• Low speed channels supported
• Problem of crosstalk
• Large number of modulators required
• High bandwidth channel requirement to operate
• Limited by frequency ranges

Applications of FDM (Frequency division multiplexing)

• FM and AM radio broadcasting
• First generation cellular phones
• Television broadcasting

How FDM works?

Each transmitter sends signal of different frequency. For example, the transmitter 1 sends signal of 30 KHz, transmitter 2 sends signal of 40 KHz and transmitter sends signal of 50 KHz. These signals of different frequencies are multiplexed or combined using a multiplexer. Multiplexer transmits multiplexed signal over a communication channel. At the receiver end the multiplexed signals are separated using a de-multiplexer and the separated signals are sent to intended receivers.

 About TDM

Time division multiplexing (TDM) is a digital multiplexing technique. All signals are operating at same frequency but within different time slots. The total time available in channel is allocated between different users referred as ‘Time Slot’ and each user can transmit in their allocated time slot. Thus, user gets control of channel for a fixed amount of time and data is transmitted one by one. The signals are transmitted in the form of frames and frames contain a cycle of time slots and each frame contains a dedicated slot for a user.

Types of TDM

TDM is of two types – Synchronous TDM and Asynchronous TDM.

Synchronous TDM – in this technique time slots are pre-assigned to each device. Each device is given a time slot irrespective whether device had data or not to transmit. Data moves in frames and if there is no data, then empty frame is transmitted. Some of the popular synchronous TDM are T-1 multiplexing, ISDN multiplexing and SONET multiplexing. Some of the limitations of Synchronous TDM is partial utilization of time slots as empty slots are also transmitted having no data, speed of transmission medium required to be greater than the total speed of the input lines.

Asynchronous TDM – is also called statistical TDM, time slots are not fixed and only allocated to devices which have data to be sent and there is a dynamic allocation of time slots to active devices only. In asynchronous frame – the address part of frame is used to identify data source.

Time division multiplexing: Pros and Cons

PROS:

• Full bandwidth utilized by user
• More flexible in usage
• Problem of crosstalk is negligible
• Demodulation is easier
• Better protection from tapping

CONS:

• Require synchronization
• Wastage of bandwidth in case of uneven distribution of traffic or reservation of slot for a station it may not have any data to transmit
• Complex to implement

Applications of TDM

• ISDN telephone lines
• Used in PSTN networks

Comaprison Table: FDM vs TDM

We can summarize the difference between FDM and TDM as given below:

Download the comparison table: FDM vs TDM

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WEP vs TKIP vs CCMP

WIRED vs WIRELESS

Wireless technology has grown tremendously over the years. New and emerging technologies such as robots, drones, self-driven vehicles, new medical devices are coming into existence which is the need of Internet of Things (IOT) which will be cornerstone for the development of these technologies.

In this article we will look at some Wireless technology trends which made their place in top 10 and changed the way people and organizations communicate in future.  These trends may raise from organizations need to be more agile to market and customer demands, data security concerns , Internet of things and so on.

Top 10 Wireless Technology Trends 

1. Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi continued to stay for long time and will remain primary choice in high performance network technology for homes as well as offices. Wi Fi will have new domains to support such as radar systems, means for two factor authentications etc.

2. 5G

5G Cellular had acted as a supplement to Wi Fi technology as more cost effective and high-speed data networking in larger sites such as ports, airports, and factories.  However , 5G is still in development stage and full deployment would take five to eight years as of now most of the providers focused on selling 5G as high speed broadband only but eventually 5G will bring in improved in the areas of Internet of Things (IOT) or in case of low latency applications.

3. Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) wireless

Conventional car driving and self-driving cars both need to communicate with each other and with road infrastructure. This integration will be enabled by V2X wireless systems. V2X wireless systems will provide an additional band of other services such as safety capabilities, navigation support and infotainment.

V2X wireless systems would eventually be the legal requirements for automobile industry however to V2X systems would need 5G network to get best out of it.

4. Long range wireless power

The limitations in terms of distance still exists slightly better than cable connectivity for devices in wireless but the new technologies can charge devices at ranges up to one meter or over a table or a desk area. Long range wireless would eventually eliminate the need of power cables from laptops, display monitors, kitchen appliances, home utility systems such as vacuum cleaners and so on.

5. Low power wide-area (LPWA) networks

For low bandwidth connectivity for IoT applications in more power efficient mode to support a longer battery life. The Low power wide area networks such as Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT), long term evolution for machines (LTE-M), LoRa and Sigfox cover large areas such as big cities or even countries. Relatively inexpensive modules let IoT manufacturers enable small, low cost, battery powered devices like sensors and trackers.

6. Wireless sensing

The purpose of sensing is absorption and reflection of wireless signals. This sensing technology can be used such as indoor radar systems for robots and drones. Virtual assistants can use radar tracking system to improve their performance when several people are, they’re in one room and talking. Data from sensor is fuel for IoT systems and used in several applications such as medical diagnostics, object recognition and smart home interactions.

7. Enhanced wireless location tracking

High precision tracking of devices in wireless arena is enabled by IEEE 802.11az standard a feature of 5G networks. Location is key data point required in several business areas such as consumer marketing, supply chains, and IoT applications.

8. Millimetre wave wireless

They operate at frequencies ranging from 30 to 300 gigahertz with wavelengths in the range of 1 to 10 millimetres. This technology will be used by wireless systems such as Wi Fi, short range 5G, high bandwidth communications such as 4K and 8K video streaming.

9. Backscatter networking

Data can be sent at very lower power consumption technology in Backscatter networking.  This is ideal for small networking devices, and especially important for applications where already wireless signals are in saturated state and there is a need for simple IoT devices such as sensors and trackers in small offices and smart homes.

10. Software defined radio (SDR)

Majority of signal processing in radio systems would shift from chips into software using SDR technology. SDR technology enables radio to support wider range of frequencies and protocols. This technology is not new and available for quite some time but never taken off as it is expensive in comparison to using chips. SDR will enable support for legacy protocols and new protocols will be enabled via software upgrades.

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Top 10 Networking technology trends

Wifi6 vs Wifi5 vs Wifi4

In this article we will learn more about different types of wireless networks, their advantages and how they are used in different places – home or offices or public places etc.

About Wireless Networks

Wireless network refers to any network not connected by cables , which is what enables desired mobility and convenience for the end user. Dozens of wireless technologies exist to meet the needs each with its unique performance characteristics and optimization for specialized tasks and context be it WiFi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, NFC, WiMax, LTE, HSPA, EV-DO , earlier 3G standards, satellite services and many more.

In the case of wireless networks, radio communication is the usual medium of choice. But within the radio powered subset dozens of different technologies designed to use at different scales, topologies and for varied use cases. 

The first professional wireless network was developed under the brand ALOHAnet in 1969 at the University of Hawaii and became operational in June 1971. 

Types of Wireless Networks

Let’s look at four different types of wireless networks and understand their characteristics :

• Wireless Local Area Networks (LAN)
• Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN)
• Wireless Personal Area Networks (PAN)
• Wireless Wide Area Networks (WAN)

Wireless Local Area Networks –

Provides internet access within a building floor, or a limited external area. It is mostly used in offices and homes and nowadays used in stores and restaurants also. The use of home networks has increased greatly during Covid-19 pandemic where people were forced to work from homes or students required to study from homes. Most home network wireless networks are simple in design, usually a modem connecting to cable or fiber from a local service provider.

A Wireless router connected to the modem receives the signal which is broadcasted using wireless protocol such as 802.11 standard. In offices access points are mounted on the ceiling , each broadcasting wireless signal to the surrounding area. Multiple access points are required in bigger offices connected to the office backbone network via a wired connection to switch.

Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks –

Are installed in cities worldwide to offer access to people outside home and offices. Their networks cover wide areas rather than office or home networks. Access points are located on sides of buildings or on telephone poles across the coverage area. Access points are connected to the internet via wired network and broadcast a wireless signal throughout the area. Users connect to their desired destination via the nearest access point which forwards the connection through its internet connection.

Wireless Personal Area Networks –

They cover a very limited area usually 100 meters for most applications using Bluetooth and ZigBee protocols. Bluetooth enables hands free phone calls, connecting phones to earpieces and transmitting signals between smart devices. (Bluetooth enabled) ZigBee connects stations along an IoT networks , Infrared technology is limited to line of sight such as TV remotes.

Wireless Wide Area Networks –

Use cellular technology to provide access outside the range of a wireless LAN or wireless MAN. These networks enable users to make phone calls to other users connecting via wireless WAN or wired telephone systems. Cell towers are located in vicinity and user connection is routed to the nearest cell tower which is connected to a wired internet or another tower connected to a wired network.

Difference between Wireless Networks

TYPE	RANGE	APPLICATIONS	STANDARDS
Wireless local area networks	Within a floor, building or campus	Wireless extension of LAN	IEEE 802.11 (WiFi)
Wireless metropolitan area networks	Within a city	Wireless inter-network connectivity	IEEE 802.15 (WiMAX)
Wireless personal area networks	Within reach of a person	Peripherals cable replacement	Bluetooth, ZigBee, NFC
Wireless wide area networks	World wide	Wireless network access cellular phones etc.	Cellular (UMTS, LTE etc.)

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Rivet Networks and Intel Killer Wireless Technology

Top 10 wireless technology trends 

Today we look more in detail about wireless mesh topology, how it works and its architecture, its features and advantages inclusive of its use cases etc.

About Wireless Mesh Technology 

A wireless mesh network (WMN) as they call it is a mesh network created using various wireless nodes with access points. Each node in the network acts as a forwarding node to its neighbouring node to transfer the data. The network is decentralized in its architecture hence forwarding of data is only possible to neighbouring nodes.

Wireless networks may or may not be connected to the Internet. The network topology of wireless mesh networks could be full or partial mesh. A full mesh means every node will communicate to every other node in the network. In partial mesh nodes only communicate to their nearby nodes.

When data is transmitted between two nodes, they do not communicate with each other, data hopping happens from one node to the next node until it reaches its final destination. The nodes are programmed to use adaptive routing algorithms to constantly determine the optimal route between nodes for transmission of data. 

Wireless Mesh Architecture

Wireless Mesh technology is an infrastructure which is a network of routers without the cabling between the nodes. It consists of radio nodes which need not be wired to a cabled port unlike conventional wireless access points. Nodes between the source and destination act as forwarding nodes, shortest hops are predicted to transmit the data to a large distance. Wireless mesh topology is reliable.

Types of Wireless Mesh Networks

Wireless mesh networks are segregated into three types based on nodes functionality in the network as under: 

Infrastructure Mesh Architecture:

Acts as wireless backbone for infrastructure in mesh architecture. Client node is passive in mesh architecture via Ethernet links; conventional clients with Ethernet interfaces will be connected to mesh routers. If a traditional network and mesh router are operating under the same radio range it is easier for a mesh network to communicate with a mesh router. In case radio ranges differ, nodes will communicate to the base station for further communication assistance to mesh routers. 

Mesh Architecture based on Clients:

Mesh architecture based on client having peer to peer connectivity. Each node acts as a routing node for data transfer. Client performs the role of mesh routing by acting in the forwarding of data packets. 

Hybrid Mesh Architecture:

Mesh nodes/routers act as backbone for the entire network operation. Using a network mesh router, it performs routing and forwarding of data packets  to the destination. 

Features of Wireless Mesh Technology 

• Dynamically self-configurable and self-organized
• Adaptive in nature with ease of installation and uninstallation of nodes 
• More fault tolerant and robust
• Useful for non-line of sight (NLoS) networks
• Ease of integration and interoperability supports different types of protocols 
• Cost of designing network is less as compared to traditional networks 

Limitations of Wireless Mesh Technology

• Low processing capabilities lead to latency as data need to hop though several nodes
• Lack of central server makes mesh systems complicated to monitor , control and troubleshoot
• Lack of centralization makes routing and resource management more complex 

Use cases 

• Battlefield surveillance 
• Tunnels
• Mobile video applications
• Home Wi-Fi networks
• Public Wi-Fi networks 
• Construction sites
• Connecting IoT devices such as sensors, security systems, smart appliances and monitoring systems
• Hospitals, educational campuses and warehouses 

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Top 10 wireless technology trends

TORA – Ad hoc Wireless Network

In the IT community, Bigfoot Networks was a startup company that devoted their main services to provide lower packet latency with a prototype “network gaming accelerator” device, before delivering their technology solution under the well-known Killer wireless brand name. 

The company’s aftermarket Network Interface Controller (NIC) features, outperformed the common onboard Ethernet Controller Ports and increased expectations for upcoming wireless hardware design, as gamers dissociated themselves from using the typical router technology.

Later on, Qualcomm enterprises has bought the Bigfoot Networks company in 2011, then they changed the name as Rivet Networks and continued to deliver Killer networking hardware that was initially installed in many Dell-Alienware gaming laptops, promising configuration tweaks that designed to improve wireless connectivity, bandwidth speed and ping responsiveness. The main strategy of the company is to focus on bandwidth utilization, as well as giving priority to services like gaming and high bandwidth tasks such as video streaming.

Unfortunately, from user’s experience, it is reported that the device’s driver optimizations could cause malfunctions too, according to the pre-installed SmartByte software, the most common problem is that the user’s internet connection is severely limited. 

Nowadays, Intel corporation has acquired Rivet Networks, with an expectation to develop new customer solutions for a broader computer connectivity experience.

Finally, during a call with Anandtech company, Intel expressed their interest in the Killer name brand project to keep on going, which has been already relying on Intel silicon for devices such as AX1650 WiFi 6 cards. The deal also includes that the team from Rivet Networks company, will have to contribute to Intel’s Wireless Solutions Group to use their custom software solution for networking hardware, because computers tend to adapt to the new WiFi standard specifications.

Intel Killer Wireless Series Features

Now according to the official website of Intel, the Intel Killer Wireless Series is able to maintain supercharged wireless network performance and enables seamless, immersive online gameplay connectivity. These kinds of solutions deliver increased levels of control, alongside with the relevant power that are required to get the most from today’s demanding online gaming applications. The most crucial features of the series are the following:

• Speed Performance: The main advantage is that the Killer Prioritization Engine detects and gives priority to the most important packet transmission for a faster, smoother user gaming experience.

• Intel Killer Wireless Intelligence: Products intelligently optimize online gaming, entertainment and communication experiences by ensuring that the user is connected to the best access point and provides recommendations to keep their network running smoothly.

• Adaptive Control: Users can set their own network access priorities, such as, adjusting bandwidth limits and optimize network performance, all through the intuitive interface of the Killer Intelligence Center software.

• Benefits in Numbers: Up to 75% less latency while gaming when multitasking and almost 3x faster than 2×2 80 MHz wireless AC device.

Intel Killer Wireless Software Specifications

Although we addressed above all the hardware related advantages and features of Killer Wireless technology, we have to admit that many advanced features are provided through Intel’s Killer Performance Suite.

It is an extremely power software free of charge that nowadays supports the products below:

Conclusion 

In this article, we addressed the historical evolution of Rivet Networks and how they developed their products in time. Many companies are going full throttle and rapidly improving their hardware specifications.

Then we addressed the main benefits and advantages of the latest Killer line products created by Intel, who is the main supplier nowadays all over the world. A short notation of the software is described, although there is not any specific graphical interface.

Finally, we would like to see a future improvement of Killer technology, not only in wireless products, but for wired connectivity desktops as well. Adjusting bandwidth and the intelligence of Killer products may improve desktop applications and OS performance in general for every simple user.

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