WIRELESS LAN
A wireless local area network (WLAN) links two or more devices using a wireless distribution method (typically spread-spectrum or OFDM radio), and usually providing a connection through an access point to the wider internet. This gives users the mobility to move around within a local coverage area and still be connected to the network.

* Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is increasingly used as a synonym for 802.11 WLANs, although it is technically a certification of interoperability between 802.11 devices.

* Fixed Wireless Data: This implements point to point links between computers or networks at two locations, often using dedicated microwave or laser beams over line of sight paths. It is often used in cities to connect networks in two or more buildings without physically wiring the buildings together.

WIRELESS MAN
Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks are a type of wireless network that connects several Wireless LANs.

* WiMAX is a type of Wireless MAN and is described by the IEEE 802.16 standard.

WIRELESS WAN
Wireless wide area networks are wireless networks that typically cover large outdoor areas. These networks can be used to connect branch offices of business or as a public internet access system. They are usually deployed on the 2.4 GHz band. A typical system contains base station gateways, access points and wireless bridging relays. Other configurations are mesh systems where each access point acts as a relay also. When combined with renewable energy systems such as photo-voltaic solar panels or wind systems they can be stand alone systems.

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Network Topology

The network topology defines the way in which computers, printers, and other devices are connected, physically and logically. A network topology describes the layout of the wire and devices as well as the paths used by data transmissions.

Network topology has two types:
* Physical
* Logical

Commonly used topologies include:
* Bus
* Star
* Tree (hierarchical)
* Linear
* Ring
* Mesh
   * partially connected
   * fully connected (sometimes known as fully redundant)

The network topologies mentioned above are only a general representation of the kinds of topologies used in computer network and are considered basic topologies.

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