Question

Evaluate possible benefits and drawbacks of using wireless solutions. Propose at least two alternatives for wireless communications in the network

Answer 1

Wireless technology
Pros and cons of wireless networking
Guide
Wireless networks or WiFi (as wireless connections are commonly known) have a number of key business advantages over wired networks.

Increased efficiency
Improved data communications lead to faster transfer of information within businesses and between partners and customers. For example, salespeople can remotely check stock levels and prices while on sales calls.

Access and availability
Because wireless technology allows the user to communicate while on the move, you are rarely out of touch - you don't need extra cables or adaptors to access office networks.

Flexibility
Office-based wireless workers can network without sitting at dedicated computers and can continue to do productive work while away from the office. This can lead to new styles of working, such as home working or direct access to corporate data while on customer sites. See more on employees working from home.

Cost savings
Wireless networks can be easier and cheaper to install, especially in listed buildings or where the landlord will not permit the installation of cables.

New opportunities
Wireless networking could allow you to offer new products or services. For example, many airport departure lounges, train stations, hotels, cafes and restaurants have installed 'hot spot' WiFi services to allow mobile users to connect their equipment to their 'home' offices while travelling.

Despite the many benefits that wireless can claim over wired networks, there are also potential WiFi disadvantages to keep in mind.

Security
Wireless transmission is more exposed to attack by unauthorised users, so you must pay particular attention to security. See securing your wireless systems.

Installation problems
You may experience interference if others in the same building also use wireless technology, or where other sources of electromagnetic (radio) interference exist. This could lead to poor communication or, in extreme cases, complete loss of wireless communication.

Coverage
In some buildings, getting consistent coverage can be difficult, leading to 'black spots' where the signal isn't available. For example, in structures built using steel reinforcing materials, you may find it difficult to pick up the radio frequencies used.

Transmission speeds
Wireless transmission can be slower and less efficient than 'wired' networks. In larger wireless networks, the 'backbone' network is usually wired or fibre rather than wireless.

Communication systems are the basis of every effective and reliable traffic control and management application. While cellular-based communication through commercial carriers is widely used for online traffic management applications, public agencies have also begun to consider other technologies, such as WiFi and WiMAX. Most such agencies still seek additional guidelines for the selection of suitable wireless options for different traffic control and management applications under different physical and environmental conditions. Performance and reliability are among the most important parameters to be considered when examining wireless communication options for traffic control and management applications. The authors first conducted interviews with selected traffic agencies regarding their experiences with performance of wireless communication infrastructure, as well as their interests and plans on future expansion. Next, they conducted a thorough literature review focusing on various wireless technologies that could be used in an intelligent transportation system environment. Last, the authors conducted a case study in which a section of the South Carolina Department of Transportation traffic camera system was wirelessly connected via either WiFi or WiMAX network architecture. This case study followed the proposed network design process presented in the article using WiFi and WiMAX technologies to support a traffic surveillance system that considered coverage range and two different network topologies: mesh/ad hoc (devices forward data to neighboring devices to reach the destination) and infrastructure (devices send data to an access point directly). The network simulator ns-2 was used to assess the average throughput that each camera can receive in different network topologies. Throughput/cost analysis of WiFi and WiMAX mesh and infrastructure topologies indicated that for given number of devices, a mesh network has better throughput for every dollar spent than infrastructure based topology. This article provides a foundation for further investigation of WiFi and WiMAX performance and reliability under different network topologies. Findings from this research will benefit transportation agencies and other stakeholders in evaluating and selecting wireless communication options and network topologies for various traffic control and management applications.