Description:

This course will introduce the student to the subject of wireless local area networks. The course will cover the types of equipment and their uses, correct configuration of equipment, types of security methods used, how to determine the physical lay-out of the access points and other equipment and procedures that can be used to administrate the network. 3 hrs. lecture, 2 hrs lab./wk.

Supplies: Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Prerequisites: NONE

Textbook(s): For information see - http://bookstore.jccc.net

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

1. List the present day applications of a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN).
2. List and explain the main segments of Radio Frequencies (RF) fundamentals.
3. List and explain the differences between the types of Spread Spectrum Technologies.
4. Explain the uses of and the set-up steps required in access points, bridges, and residential gateways.
5. Select the proper antenna for a given situation.
6. List the standards and organizations that regulate WLANs.
7. List and explain the major sections of WLAN architecture according to the textbook author.
8. List the major methods that a WLAN transmitter uses to send out data and give examples of when each should be used.
9. List the common problems found while operating a WLAN and give examples on their causes.
10. List the most common methods of securing a WLAN and compare and contrast their features.
11. List the steps of the procedure to be used when conducting a site survey.

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. Introduction to Wireless Local Area Networks 
   A. List the major developments in the history of Wireless LANs (WLAN)
   B. List the major WLAN standards organizations
   C. List the major uses of WLANs applications

II. Radio Frequencies (RF) Fundamentals
   A. List the types of RF behaviors
   B. Explain gain and loss
   C. Contrast the differences between reflection and refraction
   D. Explain the differences between diffraction and scattering

III. Spread Spectrum Technology
   A. List the major parts of Spread Spectrum Technology  
   B. Describe how Frequency-Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) works
   C. Describe how Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) works

IV. Wireless LAN Infrastructure Devices
   A. Describe the three modes of an access point  
   B. List and perform the steps in configuring wireless access devices

V. Antennas and Accessories
   A. List and explain the purposes of each type of RF antennas
   B. Describe how Power over Ethernet (PoE) devices operate
   C. List the most common WLAN accessories and describe their function. 

VI. WLAN Organizations and Standards
   A. Explain the purpose of the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) is
and their role in WLANs 
   B. Explain who the Internal Electronic and Electrical Engineers (IEEE)
is and their role in WLANs

VII. Network Architecture
   A. Compare and contrast the methods of locating a WLAN   
   B. Explain the differences between Authentication and Association in a
WLAN
   C. Explain the advantages of using Service Sets

VIII. Physical Layers
   A. List and explain the differences in the communication methods used
in WLANs  
   B. List the types of modulation methods used in WLANs and give examples
of when they should be used  
 
IX. Trouble Shooting Wireless LAN Installation
   A. Explain multi-path and give examples on how it can be reduced or
avoided
   B. Explain what causes a hidden node and how it can be avoided  
   C. List the causes of near/far and the steps that can be used to avoid
them

X. Wireless LAN Security
   A. Explain what Web Encrypted Protocol (WEP) is, its components and why
it should be used
   B. Give examples on the methods that can be used to attack a Wireless
LAN
   C. Given a real-world scenario, list several recommendations to improve
security

XI. Site Survey Fundamentals
   A. List the steps in preparing for a site survey
   B. List the equipment that could be used and the steps necessary in a
site survey and explain their purpose

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be accomplished using the following methods:

Examinations          50% of grade
Projects/Assignments  50% of grade
  Total              100%

Grade Criteria:
  A = 100 to 90%
  B =  89 to 80% 
  C =  79 to 70% 
  D =  69 to 60% 
  F =  Below 59%    

Caveats: NONE

Disabilities:

If you are a student with a disability, and if you will be requesting accommodations, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services. Access Services will recommend any appropriate accommodations to your professor and his/her director. The professor and director will identify for you which accommodations will be arranged.

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you desire support services, contact the office of Access Services for Students With Disabilities (913) 469-8500, ext. 3521 or TDD (913) 469-3885. The Access Services office is located in the Success Center on the second floor of the Student Center.