Wireless LANs (802.11) Fundamentals
This course provides an understanding of the Wireless LAN technologies, applications and standards. Other important topics such as protocol layers, quality of service, throughput, coverage, interoperability, interference and security are discussed. Basic RF theory, propagation, Link budget math, Troubleshooting, WLAN Security foundations and site survey are explored. After a general introduction to wireless networks, this practical course moves quickly into the details of the Wireless LANs standards (802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g), 802.11 physical (DSSS and OFDM), dMAC (Media Access Control), detailed 802.11 framing, WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy protocol), WPA/WPA2, TKIP, 802.1x, Enhanced MAC (IEEE 802.11e), 802.11f, 802.11i, QoS Requirements, Inter-frame Spacing, EDCF Access, HCF for QBSS, Enhanced Security management operations, and the PCF (point coordination function) are all covered in detail. Real-world experiences through case studies and implementation tips located throughout the course reference material.