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WLAN Terminology Explained

wlan wi-fi 802.11 wireless network access point

This page explains common terms related to WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) technology.

It covers topics such as what a WLAN is, along with explanations of 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, Wi-Fi hotspots, Wi-Fi access points, Wi-Fi stations, 802.11ad, WLAN routers, and more.

WLAN Terms	Basic description	RF Wireless World Reference
WLAN	Wireless Local Area Network, the wireless extension of a LAN using Wi-Fi bands.
802.11a	One version of the WLAN standard using OFDM modulation, supporting speeds up to 54 Mbps. It operates in the 5 GHz RF carrier frequency band with a bandwidth of approximately 20 MHz.
802.11b	One version of the WLAN standard supporting DSSS and CCK modulation schemes. It has a maximum data rate of 11 Mbps and operates at 2.4 GHz.
802.11g	Supports both 802.11a and 802.11b variants. It operates at 2.4 GHz.
802.11n	Supports legacy standards like 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g. Additionally, it supports new modes such as greenfield mode. It achieves higher data rates through the addition of MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) technology.
802.11ac	Builds upon the capabilities of 802.11n. It supports all legacy versions up to 802.11n. MIMO capabilities are further enhanced. It supports multi-user transmission, beamforming, and multi-user MIMO.
Wi-Fi hotspot	Kiosks providing free or paid Wi-Fi service for internet access at specific locations like outlets and malls.
Access Point	A terminal providing Wi-Fi connectivity to multiple Wi-Fi subscribers (stations). Similar to a router, it interfaces with an internet service provider on one end and provides wireless connectivity to stations on the other.
Station	Users or subscribers with WLAN or Wi-Fi capabilities.
802.11ad	Features of 802.11ad.
WLAN router	A device that routes packets through the WLAN network.
BSS	Basic Service Set, a set of stations controlled by a common coordination function. The coordination function determines whether stations within the BSS are permitted to transmit and receive.
DS	Distribution System, a system connecting BSSs and integrated LANs to form an ESS.
ESS	Extended Service Set, a set of one or more BSSs and LANs. It appears as a single BSS to the LLC layer.
MPDU	MAC Protocol Data Unit, a unit of data exchanged between two peer MAC entities using the PHY layer.
MSDU	MAC Service Data Unit, information exchanged as a unit between two MAC users.

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