NET 171 Fundamentals of Wireless LANs

Lecture Hours: 3
Lab Hours: 4
Credits: 5

Introduces the fundamentals of wireless LANs. Focuses on the design, planning, implementation, operation, and troubleshooting. Includes a comprehensive, hands-on overview of wireless LAN technologies, security, and design best practices. Prepares students to achieve the Cisco Wireless LAN Support Specialist designation.

Prerequisite: NET 142 with a grade of C or better; or equivalent experience; or consent of instructor.
Student Learning Outcomes:

Describe the different types of wireless radio technologies and topologies.
Configure and install wireless access points, bridges, adapters, and antennas.
Identify wireless security threats and vulnerabilities.
Design, install, monitor, and maintain a wireless network.
Describe proper site survey technologies and safety practices.

Content Outline

Introduction to Wireless LANs
- Overview of Wireless LANs
- Networking media
- Wireless technologies
- Components and technologies
- WLAN market
- Challenges and issues
802.11 Standard and Network Interface Cards
- MAC layer
- Physical layer
- Client adapters and utilities
- Performing diagnostics
Wireless Radio Technology
- Electromagnetic waves
- Signals as a function of time
- Signals as a function of frequency
- Radio systems
- Radio wave propagation
Wireless Topologies
- Components
- WLAN topologies
- Channel setup
- Bridge topologies
- Sample topologies
Access Points
- Introduction
- Basic configuration
- Management methods
- Ethernet Port Configuration
- Configuration services
Bridges
- Wireless bridge
- Basic configuration
- Configuration services
- Statistics
Antennas
- 2.4 GHz Omni-Directional Antennas
- 2.4 GHz Directional Antennas
- 5 GHz Antennas
- Cable accessories
- Link engineering
- Antenna installation
- Security
- Security fundamentals
- WLAN security technologies
- Configuration - users, filters, associations
- Scalable Enterprise WLAN Security Systems
Application Design and Site Survey Prep
- Scalable Enterprise WLAN Security
- Applications
- WLAN design
- Building to building design
- Site survey equipment and utilities
Site Survey
- Infrastructure awareness
- Survey
- Mounting and installation
- Accessories
- Site survey documentation and project management
Troubleshooting, Management and Diagnostics
Emerging Technologies