2.3 Comparing and Contrasting Protocols for Wireless Networking
COMPTIA A+ CORE 1 - DOMAIN 2
Cyber Wizard
This article explores the differences between various wireless networking protocols, including frequencies, channels, Wi-Fi standards, Bluetooth, NFC, RFID, and long-range fixed wireless technologies, as required for the CompTIA A+ exam.
CompTIA A+ Exam Domain: Domain 2.3 - Compare and contrast protocols for wireless networking.
Wireless Frequencies
Wireless networks operate on different frequency bands, each with unique characteristics affecting speed, range, and interference.
2.4GHz Frequency
Longer range, better penetration through walls.
More susceptible to interference from household devices (e.g., microwaves, Bluetooth, cordless phones).
Supports lower data speeds compared to higher frequencies.
Used in 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi standards.
5GHz Frequency
Higher speeds due to wider bandwidth availability.
Shorter range compared to 2.4GHz; does not penetrate obstacles as well.
Less interference, making it ideal for high-bandwidth applications.
Used in 802.11a/n/ac/ax (Wi-Fi 6) standards.
Wireless Channels
Wireless frequencies are divided into multiple channels to minimize interference and optimize network performance.
Channel Regulations
2.4GHz band has 11-14 channels, but only 3 non-overlapping (1, 6, 11 in the U.S.).
5GHz band has more available channels and wider channel widths (20MHz, 40MHz, 80MHz, 160MHz).
Regulatory bodies (FCC, ETSI) control frequency allocation and transmission power limits.
2.4GHz vs. 5GHz Channel Usage
2.4GHz – More crowded, prone to interference.
5GHz – More available channels, supports higher speeds.
Bluetooth
Short-range wireless technology operating in the 2.4GHz band.
Used for device pairing, audio streaming, input devices, and file transfers.
Versions:
Bluetooth 4.0 – Introduced Low Energy (BLE) for power efficiency.
Bluetooth 5.0+ – Increased range, speed, and bandwidth for IoT applications.
Wi-Fi Standards (IEEE 802.11)
Wi-Fi standards define wireless networking capabilities, speeds, and frequencies.
802.11a (1999)
5GHz band, 54 Mbps, short range.
Less interference but lower adoption.
802.11b (1999)
2.4GHz band, 11 Mbps, longer range.
Prone to interference.
802.11g (2003)
2.4GHz band, 54 Mbps.
Backward-compatible with 802.11b.
802.11n (Wi-Fi 4) (2009)
2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, up to 600 Mbps.
Introduced MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) for better throughput.
802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) (2014)
5GHz band, up to 6.9 Gbps.
Supports MU-MIMO (Multi-User MIMO) for better multi-device efficiency.
Wider channels (up to 160MHz) for increased data transfer rates.
802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) (2019)
2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, up to 9.6 Gbps.
Supports OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access) for more efficient spectrum use.
Better performance in high-density environments (stadiums, offices).
Introduces Target Wake Time (TWT) to improve battery life in IoT devices.
Long-Range Fixed Wireless
Used for broadband access in remote areas without traditional wired infrastructure.
Licensed vs. Unlicensed Bands
Licensed: Requires government approval, less interference (used by ISPs, cellular towers).
Unlicensed: Open to public use, more interference (Wi-Fi, home networks).
Power Considerations
Higher power increases range but requires regulatory approval.
Limited by government-imposed EIRP (Effective Isotropic Radiated Power) restrictions.
Regulatory Requirements for Wireless Power
Compliance with FCC, ITU, and regional authorities is mandatory.
Power limits prevent excessive interference with other networks.
Near-Field Communication (NFC)
Short-range wireless technology (up to 4 cm).
Used for contactless payments, keyless entry, and device pairing.
Operates at 13.56 MHz.
Requires close-proximity authentication for secure transactions.
Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID)
Uses radio waves for tracking, inventory management, and access control.
Components:
RFID Tags – Passive (no power source) or active (battery-powered).
RFID Reader – Captures tag data for processing.
Operates on low-frequency (LF), high-frequency (HF), or ultra-high-frequency (UHF) bands.
Final Thoughts
Understanding wireless networking protocols is essential for IT professionals. The CompTIA A+ exam tests knowledge of different wireless standards, their frequencies, channels, and use cases. Mastering these concepts will help in configuring, troubleshooting, and optimizing wireless networks effectively.