Wireless LAN design alternatives

The authors have discussed several alternatives in wireless LAN design: media choice, operating frequency, operating mode, network topology, and access method. Although each technical choice presents both advantages and disadvantages, they argue that there is a design point that provides the best fit with present and future wireless LAN user needs. Considering all factors-including robustness, regulatory considerations, and interference avoidance-using a product based on the slow frequency-hopping spread spectrum, in the 2.4 GHz ISM band, relying on a base station remote station network topology and using a TDMA-based access method is the best way to meet the needs of radio-frequency wireless LAN users. The choices are many, but slow frequency-hopping at 2.4 GHz and TDMA-based medium access control provide the best mix of cost, range, interference, and performance