Gain a practical understanding of the underlying concepts of the 802.11n standard and the methodologies for completing a successful wireless network installation



Practical, start-to-finish guidance for successful deployment of 802.11n wireless LANs



With the ratification of the 802.11n wireless LAN standard, thousands of companies are moving rapidly toward implementation. However, 802.11n is very different from legacy 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g wireless standards, and successful deployment requires new knowledge and techniques. In this book, leading wireless expert Jim Geier systematically presents all the information and guidance that network architects, engineers, administrators, and managers need to maximize the performance and business value of new 802.11n networks.



Drawing on extensive experience with real-world 802.11n deployments, Geier guides you through the entire project lifecycle: planning, design, installation, testing, monitoring, and support. Each phase of wireless LAN deployment is organized into clearly defined steps, and multiple case studies and hands-on exercises show how to apply each technique.



You'll find practical guidance for deploying in enterprises without existing wireless infrastructure, as well as migrating from legacy 802.11a, 802.11b, or 802.11g networks. For convenient reference, Geier also provides an extensive, up-to-date wireless networking glossary.



Understanding 802.11n MAC, physical layer, and related standards
Designing 802.11n wireless networks for diverse scenarios: considering architecture, range, performance, roaming, and RF issues
Migrating from 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g wireless networks
Choosing the right tools and equipment, and using them effectively
Planning effectively: scoping projects; creating work breakdown structures; organizing teams, schedules, and budgets; defining requirements, and more
Securing WLANs via encryption, authentication, rogue access point detection, RF shielding, and polices
Performing site surveys and identifying optimum access point locations
Installing and configuring wireless LANs: planning, staging, deployment, documentation, and more
Systematic testing to improve signal coverage, performance, and security
Managing wireless LANs: help desk support, network monitoring, maintenance, engineering, configuration management, security, tools, and more
Troubleshooting 802.11n networks: identifying issues with connectivity, performance, and more

Designing and Deploying 802.11 Wireless Networks



Second Edition






A Practical Guide to Implementing 802.11n and 802.11ac Wireless Networks For Enterprise-Based Applications






Plan, deploy, and operate high-performance 802.11ac and 802.11n wireless networks






The new 802.11ac standard enables WLANs to deliver significantly higher performance. Network equipment manufacturers have refocused on 802.11ac- and 802.11n-compliant solutions, rapidly moving older versions of 802.11 toward "legacy" status. Now, there's a complete guide to planning, designing, installing, testing, and supporting 802.11ac and 802.11n wireless networks in any environment, for virtually any application.



Jim Geier offers practical methods, tips, and recommendations that draw on his decades of experience deploying wireless solutions and shaping wireless standards. He carefully introduces 802.11ac's fundamentally different design, site survey, implementation, and network configuration techniques, helping you maximize performance and avoid pitfalls.






Geier organizes each phase of WLAN deployment into clearly defined steps, making the entire planning and deployment process easy to understand and execute. He illuminates key concepts and methods through realistic case studies based on current Cisco products, while offering tips and techniques you can use with any vendor's equipment. To build your skills with key tasks, you'll find several hands-on exercises relying on free or inexpensive tools.



Whether you're deploying an entirely new wireless network or migrating from older equipment, this guide contains all the expert knowledge you'll need to succeed.






Jim Geier has 30 years of experience planning, designing, analyzing and implementing communications, wireless, and mobile systems. Geier is founder and Principal Consultant of Wireless-Nets, Ltd., providing wireless analysis and design services to product manufacturers. He is also president, CEO, and co-founder of Health Grade Networks, providing wireless network solutions to hospitals, airports, and manufacturing facilities. His books include the first edition of Designing and Deploying 802.11n Wireless Networks (Cisco Press); as well as Implementing 802.1X Security Solutions and Wireless Networking Handbook. Geier has been active in the IEEE 802.11 Working Group and Wi-Fi Alliance; has chaired the IEEE Computer Society (Dayton Section) and various conferences; and served as expert witness in patent litigation related to wireless and cellular technologies.





Review key 802.11 concepts, applications, markets, and technologies
Compare ad hoc, mesh, and infrastructure WLANs and their components
Consider the impact of radio signal interference, security vulnerabilities, multipath propagation, roaming, and battery limitations
Thoroughly understand today's 802.11 standards in the context of actual network deployment and support
Plan your deployment: scoping, staffing, schedules, budgets, risks, feasibility analysis, and requirements
Architect access networks and distribut