Overview of wireless networks and security issues for wifi networks

W . ireless local area networks (WLAN s) provide wireless connectivity between PCs, laptops and other equipment in corporate, public and home environments. Today, tens of millions of users rely on shortrange wireless connectivity between computers or automation equipment using WLAN modem gear that complies with well-known Figure 1. Evolution ofWLAN standards. standards such as IEEE 802.11, 802.11 a, 802.11 b and 802.llg. The first WLAN standard IEEE 802.11, initially contemplated in the late 1980's, was finalized in 1997 (10 years later!) and provided interoperability standards for equipment makers compatible 'with IEEE 802.11 b and 802.11 standards. · Figure 1 illustrates the evolution of IEEE WLAN · standards. An overview of the evolution of WiFi is