Network Infrastructure is an important part of any home or business. There are a few different types of network systems, depending on you or your company needs. PC Dayton provides networking services throughout Dayton and the Miami Valley. We offer services for your home, as well as small to large business applications.

Types of Network Infrastructure

WiFi Network

WiFi Networks are the most common types of networking and can be found in any home across the country. A Wi-Fi network is a wireless system that uses radio waves (based on IEEE 802.11 standards) to connect devices like phones, laptops, and TVs to the internet or each other, eliminating the need for cables. It works by sending data between a wireless router (connected to the internet via a modem) and devices with built-in wireless adapters, creating a local network (WLAN) for browsing, streaming, and sharing. While often thought to mean “wireless fidelity,” Wi-Fi is actually a trademarked brand name used as a marketing term for interoperability.

How it works

  • Radio Waves: Your device’s wireless adapter converts data into radio signals, which a router receives and sends to the internet (and vice-versa).
  • Router: This device acts as the central hub, broadcasting the wireless network signal.
  • Frequency Bands: Wi-Fi typically uses 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, with 2.4 GHz traveling further and 5 GHz offering faster speeds.

Key aspects

  • Connectivity: Allows multiple devices to connect to the internet and each other cable-free within range.
  • Standards: The technology is governed by IEEE 802.11 protocols, with newer versions like Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) providing better performance.
  • Types: Includes home networks, public hotspots (like in cafes), and mesh systems for broader coverage.
  • Security: Requires a password to protect your network, with public Wi-Fi posing greater security risks.
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WISP internet (Wireless Internet Service Provider) delivers internet via radio signals, not wires, using towers and antennas to connect homes and businesses, especially in rural areas lacking traditional broadband, often employing fixed wireless, Wi-Fi, or even 5G/LTE technologies. They bridge the digital divide by offering service where cable/fiber struggle, using a base station (often fiber-fed) that broadcasts to customer antennas (CPE), providing competitive, contract-free options for consumers and businesses.

How it works

  • Base Station: A WISP sets up a high-capacity access point (like on a tower) connected to the internet via fiber.
  • Wireless Transmission: The base station broadcasts a signal over a specific area using various frequencies (like 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, licensed bands).
  • Customer Equipment (CPE): A small antenna or receiver is installed on the customer’s roof, pointing towards the base station for a clear line of sight.
  • In-Home Connection: The CPE connects to a router/modem inside, providing Wi-Fi for devices.

Key Characteristics

  • Rural Focus: Excellent for unserved or under served areas where wired options are scarce.
  • Technology Mix: Uses fixed wireless, Wi-Fi, 5G, and sometimes fiber backhaul.
  • Performance: Speed and reliability depend on distance, line-of-sight, and network congestion, but modern WISPs offer fast speeds.
  • Flexibility: Often provides unlimited data, no contracts, and competitive pricing, according to Wisper Internet.
  • Industry Body: The Wireless Internet Service Providers for America (WISPA) represents and supports the industry, as shown on its website.

A computer network is a system of two or more interconnected devices, like computers, servers, and printers, that can communicate and share data, resources (like printers, internet), and services using physical cables (Ethernet, fiber optic) or wireless signals (Wi-Fi), following established rules called communication protocols. Networks range from small home setups (LANs) to the global Internet, enabling functions like email, file sharing, and web browsing.

Key Components

  • Nodes: The interconnected devices (computers, printers, routers).
  • Links: The physical (cables) or wireless (radio waves) connections between nodes.
  • Protocols: Rules (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP) governing data exchange.

How it Works

  • Connection: Devices link via wires or wirelessly.
  • Addressing: Each device gets an address (IP address) to be found.
  • Data Exchange: Devices use protocols to package, send, and receive data (like packets).

Types of Networks

  • LAN (Local Area Network): Small area (home, office).
  • WAN (Wide Area Network): Large area (cities, countries).
  • Internet: A global network of networks.