What is a WWAN?
WWAN is the process of linking different networks over a large geographical area to allow wider file sharing and connectivity. In the case of Adult and Community Learning (ACL) providers this can involve connecting multiple sites situated across a particular region. Whereas computers are often connected to traditional wide area networks using cable networking solutions such as telephone systems, wireless wide area networks are connected via radio, satellite and mobile phone technologies. The advantages of adopting a wireless networking platform often come from the geographical location of a school, institution or business: In rural areas, wireless networking can be a positive alternative to laying long and expensive cable or fibre links. In built-up urban areas, installing cable infrastructures can be too disruptive to consider. Therefore, making wireless networks an attractive option. However, a disadvantage that can be a factor is interference from other wireless systems, particularl
A wWAN [Wireless Wide Area Network] is a carrier-operated (cellular) network covering a large geographic area. It is often called “nationwide coverage”, though as with cell phone coverage, this does not mean that every location in the country or region is covered. A wWAN can be used for voice or data or both – dependent upon the carrier and the user device. For data, wWANS use a technology similar to that used for cellular telephony and often share infrastructure with voice traffic. Depending on location, a user may have higher bandwidth available (40-60Kbps), or one with bandwidth similar to that of a 9.6Kbps dial-up modem. Please note that these data rate speeds are low when compared to typical wired connections such as DSL and cable, which may exist in the home or office and transmit in the hundreds of Kbps up to Mbps. The U.S. faces challenges due to lack of nationwide standards and a large geographical area. There are multiple network providers – common carriers and telcos. To acc
A Wireless Wide Area Network or WWAN is wireless connectivity to the Internet achieved through using cellular tower technology. Cellular services like AT&T™, Verizon™ and Sprint™ offer WWAN for a monthly fee, or alternately on a pay-as-you-need-it basis. WWAN connectivity allows a user with a laptop and a WWAN card to surf the Internet, check email, or connect to a Virtual Private Network (VPN) from anywhere within the regional boundaries of cellular service. As people become more dependent on online technology to conduct business and keep information flowing, wireless connectivity has become a virtual necessity. Many hotels and communities offer local connectivity, but coverage is often spotty or nonexistent. WWAN can all but guarantee connectivity when you need it. To take advantage of WWAN, a user must first purchase a WWAN PC card for his or her laptop unless WWAN connectivity is built-in. By purchasing the card and paying a monthly fee, one need only slip the card into the PC-card
WWANs, or wireless wide area networks, use cellular signals to connect, allowing access over much larger areas. Using WWAN technology, you have the freedom to access the internet from virtually anywhere within your wireless phone carrier’s coverage map, meaning that the restrictiveness of the office and isolation of being out in the field are almost things of the past.
