Modes of Operation:
Wireless network interface controllers (WNICs) operate in two main modes: infrastructure mode and ad hoc mode. Infrastructure mode requires a wireless access point for data transfer, with all communication passing through the access point. Nodes in infrastructure mode must have the same Service Set Identifier (SSID) as the access point. Ad hoc mode allows direct communication between wireless nodes without the need for an access point. In ad hoc networks, all nodes must use the same channel and SSID for seamless connectivity.
Specifications:
WNICs adhere to the IEEE 802.11 standard, which defines the technical specifications for wireless networks. Compatibility with older 802.11 variants enables older WNICs to work with legacy systems. Common specifications include data transfer rates, wireless standards, and support for various wireless network standards such as 802.11, Bluetooth, and 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). These specifications ensure interoperability and performance across different wireless technologies.
Range and FullMAC/SoftMAC Devices:
The range of wireless networks can be influenced by obstacles and the quality of antennas, with factors like physical obstructions impacting signal strength. While the theoretical range of IEEE 802.11 is extensive, the practical effective range is typically about half of that. Additionally, the speed of data transmission decreases as the distance from the WNIC increases. WNICs can be categorized into FullMAC and SoftMAC devices based on how they implement the Media Access Control (MAC) sublayer management. FullMAC devices handle MAC operations in hardware or firmware, simplifying the protocol for the main CPU, while SoftMAC devices execute MAC functions in host-based software, offering flexibility and control.