This report describes what wireless local area networks are and the use and configuration of them. These WLAN as they also are called can be used both in new installations and expansion of existing networks. Further on this report reveals security in this area. Security is incredible important in all networks not at least wireless because you don’t have to be in the environment physically to get the information, you only have to be in the coverage area that can be several hundred meters. It also takes up several different standards for wireless LANs. These are more or less topical and while this paper is written new standards are taking form so this really is under development.

The work has been done in co-operation with Koneo Rosenlund where most of this work has been performed. The products that were opted to work with were Linksys products within the 802.11g standard.

The reason for this inquiry was that Koneo had noticed and thought that wireless LANs is the future and because they wanted an environment to show old and new customers and use in their daily work.

I have found that the wireless LAN is an excellent option to the traditional LANs. They are cheap to install, easy to administrate and expand. If someone wants to change office there is no need to draw a new cable or change cables in a switch, just place the computer on the new desk and everything will work as it used to. For most users it’s ok in safety matters to use WLANs but for them with top secret documents or in a hospital where the radio waves can disturb other equipment then it’s a worse alternative.

I think that I fulfilled most of the goals we set up before I started this work. Some part have been fulfilled beyond our expectations and others have been more difficult to solve.