Wireless Networking: Standards, Frequency Bands, and Their Impact on Connectivity

In today’s lecture, I will cover two crucial topics: networking standards and the various frequency bands used in wireless communication. Let’s dive into the details. In the realm of networking, adherence to established standards is essential for the effective use of technology. For wireless networking, the primary standard we refer to is 802.11.

The Role of IEEE in Standard Development

These standards are developed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Within IEEE, there are dedicated working groups responsible for creating and maintaining the Wi-Fi standards. The process of standard creation involves multiple stages, including the drafting of amendments, which go through several iterations before they are finalized.

When a standard is proposed, it undergoes extensive review and refinement, culminating in ratification and approval. This rigorous process ensures that standards are not only effective but also adaptable to new technologies. For instance, the 802.11n amendment was introduced to enhance the capabilities of the original standard.

The Evolution of Standards

Standards like 802.11 are not static; they evolve over time to incorporate new features and advancements in technology. The most recent revision of the wireless standard is 802.11-2020, which includes the latest technologies, namely 802.11ax and 802.11be.

It’s essential to understand that the process of standardization involves collaboration among various stakeholders, and the approved standards can evolve by adding features to accommodate future technological advancements.