History

• The world's first wireless computer communications network was developed in 1970 at the University of Hawaii, under the direction of Norman Abramson. Initially, cost made it an ineffective alternative to cabled LANs, and it was only used in cases where cabling was troublesome or impossible. Focus was given to industry-specific uses, but by the end of the 1990s, a standard protocol was developed, primarily IEEE 802.11, or Wi-Fi.
  
  

Users

• Wireless networks have revolutionized the way the Internet is accessed as more and more users now owning laptops and netbooks. Technology is now portable, and Wi-Fi allows for browsing the back patio deck or basement. Coffee houses can now entice customers to relax and read their email while sipping a latte. Businesses have profited from an increase in productivity as employees now work from home and office using one laptop, saving money on the installation of workstations.
  
  

Setup

• To set up a WLAN, access to a broadband Internet connection is needed as well as a wireless router, and either a computer with built-in wireless networking support or a wireless network adapter. The wireless router converts signals being sent across your Internet connection into a wireless broadcast. For setup ease, choose a router and adapter from the same company. Most new computers will come with built-in wireless adapters, however, USB adapters are widely available and easy to use.
  
  

Benefits

• The popularity of LANs is testament to their convenience, allowing users to access network resources from more locations, at home and in the office. As more localities add public wireless networks, users have an increasing number of access points to the Internet, at little or no cost. Productivity increases as users experience network integration. Setup of wireless networks is easier and quicker than wired networks, and adding additional users is both faster and more economical.
  
  

Considerations

• There have been security concerns from users, because of hackers known as dedicated to locating and accessing wireless connections. A router with security and signal strength sufficient for a regular home may not be effective in larger structures. Wireless networking signals are subject to a wide range of interference, and the speed on most wireless networks is reasonably slow compared to common wired networks.