The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is a professional organization with members in engineering, science, and allied professions. The IEEE (pronounced “eye triple E”) is best known for its standards in the electronics, computer, and networking industries. The IEEE 802.x networking standard has become the de facto industry standard for wired and wireless networks.

The IEEE 802.x family of standards sets guidelines for networks that transmit data using radio frequency signals. Within the 802.x standards group, the 802.11x standards define the operation, characteristics, and construction of wireless local area networks (WLANs). In this chapter, you will learn about the growth of wireless networks, the IEEE 802.11x standards, and their capabilities, characteristics, and security. You also will learn about WLAN design and layout and conducting a site survey.