A wireless LAN or WLAN is a wireless local area network, which
is the linking of two or more computers without using wires. WLAN utilizes
pread-spectrum
or OFDM modulation technology based on radio waves to enable communication
between devices in a limited area, also known as the basic service set. This
gives users the mobility to move around within a broad coverage area and still
be connected to the network.
For the home user, wireless has become popular due to ease of installation,
and location freedom with the gaining popularity of laptops. Public businesses
such as coffee shops or malls have begun to offer wireless access to their
customers; some are even provided as a free service. Large wireless network
projects are being put up in many major cities. Google is even providing a free
service to Mountain View, California
and has entered a bid to do the same for San Francisco.
New York City has also begun a pilot program to cover all five boroughs of the
city with wireless Internet access.
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