On a router, WLAN refers to the wireless local area network functionality. It's the component that allows your router to communicate wirelessly with devices like smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs using radio transmissions, rather than physical cables. Think of it as the bridge between your wired network (connected via Ethernet cables) and your wireless devices.
Understanding WLAN's Role
- A WLAN, as defined by Cisco, is a group of colocated computers or other devices forming a network based on radio transmissions. This applies directly to the WLAN functionality within a router. The router acts as the central hub for this wireless network.
- The term
wlan0, often seen in router configurations, usually represents the primary wireless interface. In some cases, it acts as a bridge between wired LAN ports and the wireless network, potentially including the WAN/Internet port (as noted in a NETGEAR community forum discussion). - A wireless router, or Wi-Fi router, integrates both the functions of a wireless access point (the component that broadcasts the Wi-Fi signal) and a router (the device that manages network traffic and routes data between networks). Therefore, the WLAN is a crucial part of its overall function.
How WLAN Works on a Router
Your router uses radio frequencies to transmit and receive data to and from wireless devices. This allows devices to connect to your network without the need for physical Ethernet cables. The router manages the connections, assigns IP addresses, and routes internet traffic to and from these connected wireless devices. Features like WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) simplify connecting new devices to the WLAN. The specific radio frequencies and channel widths (e.g., 20MHz or 40MHz) used by your router’s WLAN can affect performance.
Example
Imagine you have a home network with a router. Your laptop connects wirelessly to your router via the WLAN. This allows you to access the internet and share files with other devices on the network without using a cable.
