How it Works - WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)

A WLAN provides wireless communications using radio waves for a wide range of applications including access to the internet. WLANs can use a single access point or multiple access ports with a switch. An access point provides coverage for one specific area, while multiple access ports combined with a switch allow a larger coverage area and roaming. (Roaming from one access port to another is similar to a cellular phone switching from one tower to another as a user drives down a highway.)