CS440 Computer Networks 1 Wireless LAN (IEEE ) Neil Tang 10/01/2008
CS440 Computer Networks 2 Outline Basic Architecture Physical Properties MAC Protocols WLAN with Multiple APs
CS440 Computer Networks 3 Wireless LAN (802.11) Basic Architecture: Infrastructure mode and ad hoc mode MAC Protocol: CSMA/CA (MACA)
CS440 Computer Networks 4 Basic Architecture AP Infrastructure mode Ad hoc mode
CS440 Computer Networks 5 Encoding & Modulation: FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum), DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum), OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) Spectrum: 2.4GHz/5GHz Error Detection: CRC Maximum Data Rate: 11Mbps/54Mbps Transmission Range: m Physical Properties
CS440 Computer Networks 6 Hidden Terminal Problem Transmission Range A B C Nodes A and C are hidden terminals.
CS440 Computer Networks 7 Exposed Terminal Problem Transmission Range A B CD Nodes A and B are exposed terminals.
CS440 Computer Networks 8 MAC Protocols Distributed Coordination Function (DCF) : Simple protocol with no centralized control. Point Coordination Function (PCF): APs control medium access and provide collision-free communications.
CS440 Computer Networks 9 DCF Basic Idea: CSMA/CA (MACA) Request-To-Send (RTS) and Clear-To-Send (CTS) are used to reserve space and time for transmission. Both physical and virtual carrier sensing (Network Allocation Vector (NAV)) are used to determine the time for transmission. ACK frame and stop-and-wait protocol The exponential backoff algorithm
CS440 Computer Networks 10 DCF
CS440 Computer Networks 11 WLAN with Multiple APs AP2 AP1 Distribution System A B
CS440 Computer Networks 12 WLAN with Multiple APs AP Selection (Scanning) The node sends a Probe frame. All APs within reach reply with a Probe Response frame. The nodes selects one of the access points based on signal strength or other metrics, and sends that AP an Association Request frame. The AP replies with an Association Response frame. Active scanning Vs. passive scanning
CS440 Computer Networks 13 Frame Format Address Fields Normal Case (point-to-point): Addr1(destination), Addr2(source) Complex Case (routing via distribution system): Addr1(ultimate destination), Addr2(intermediate sender), Addr3(intermediate destination), Addr4(original source) Addr4PayloadSeqCtrlAddr3Addr2Addr1CRC 0 -18, Duration 16 Control 16