Wi-Fi refers to wireless local area network technology that allows electronic devices to connect to the internet and communicate without being physically connected with cables. It operates using radio signals within a range of about 300 feet and is based on the IEEE 802.11 standard. Wi-Fi certification ensures devices can connect to any Wi-Fi network. Businesses benefit from increased productivity, mobility, and reduced costs compared to wired networks, though security and interference from other devices are challenges. Other uses of Wi-Fi include public places like cafes and universities to provide internet access.

1. 1DELHI SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENTDELHI TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITYSubmitted to: Prof. P.K. SuriSubmitted by: Case : Information Technology Management Ishaan Sharma 64/MBA Date : 06-Feb-2010ShekharRaiwani 48/MBA Class : 2nd Sem MBA Vaibhav Seth 57/MBAVineetMakhija 59/MBA

2. Wi-Fi???What is Wi-Fi ?Wireless Fidelity2

3. WI-FIRadio Signal300 feet rangeBased on IEEE 802.11 standardTrade name for wireless broadband technologyUsually operates in range of 2.4Mhz3

4. Wi-FiWi-Fi refers to an over-the-air connection with a wireless client and a base between two wireless clientsit operates in unlicensed frequency bands, any one can set up a Wi-Fi network true freedom if your computer is Wi-Fi CERTIFIED radio (a PC Card or similar device) configured. Wi-Fi certification =ability to connect anywhere4

5. Wi-FiWi-Fi certification comes from the Wi-Fi Alliance, a non-profit international trade organizationtests 802.11-based wireless equipment to make sure it meets the Wi-Fi standard5

6. IEEE wireless standards 6

7. IEEE 802.11bAppear in late 1999

8. Operates at 2.4GHz radio spectrum

9. 11 Mbps (theoretical speed) - within 30 m Range

10. 4-6 Mbps (actual speed)

11. 100 -150 feet range

12. Most popular, Least Expensive

13. Interference from mobile phones and Bluetooth devices which can reduce the transmission speed.7

14. Penetration of Wi-Fi8

15. Question -1What are the business benefits of Wi-Fi networks ?9

16. United Parcel SystemEquipped worldwide distribution center with wireless serviceCost $120 million35% productivity gain10

17. Wells dairyManufacturers blue bunny brand of ice-creamEquipped with Wi-Fi .Serves 900 employees 10 hrs/week saved in technical support as not many data lines to maintain11

18. Wi-Fi provides FreedomFREEDOM from WIRE12

19. Wi-Fi provides Freedomfreedom to physically move around your home or businessfreedom to grow and move an office or business without having to install new cables and wiresfreedom to be connected while travelling and on the roadfreedom from drilling holes in walls and floorsfreedom from dragging cables or hide them under rugs13

20. Drivers of Wi-FiInternet becomes part of our lifeE-mailWireless devices like laptopsAnywhere, anytime access.Wi-Fi components are now on a rapid cost reduction curve as volumes increaseto remain constantly interconnected while roaming within the range of a base station14

21. Benefits contd.Super fast wireless connection¼ th cost compared to wired N/WsLow cost and extensive availability of Wi-Fi products Mobility - users can move about almost without restriction Flexibility & scalabilityConvenience- seamless connectivityTime savingCustomized15

22. After Implementing Wi-FiHigh user productivity - employees can work more effectively and efficientlyCost efficiency - accurate design means less wastage and more performanceMaximum Return on InvestmentImproved Quality of Work reducing the costs of network deployment and expansionCompetitive edge to business16

23. Number of users by time of day17

24. Question 2What are some of the problems faced by the companies using that are using Wi-Fi networks? What are the solution to those problems?18

25. GM & Marriot HotelGeneral Motors has deployed Wi-Fi in 90 manufacturing plants but is holding off on Wi-Fi at its headquarters until next year. Why?19

26. Marriot hotel across the streetGuests at hotel could log on GM N/WCan go away with vital infoSo GM waiting for new encryption code20

27. ProblemsProblem of placement - Frequency spectrum used by IEEE 802.11b is shared by many other systems like Mic wave ovens, cordless phones ,BTetc. This causes interference problem.EmployeeLaptopWi-fiInternet effects productivityHT Brunch-Statistics 30% of employees spend at least an hour online doing personal thingsSecurity concernIt has a limited bandwidth of about 83.5 MHz.Challenge for the IT dept21

28. Challenges Two major challenges areEncryptionAuthentication22

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30. Solutions24

31. Solution Contd.Enhanced security standard25

32. Solution Contd.No Laptop in important meetings26

33. Question 3What are some other business uses for Wi-Fi networks not mentioned in this case? What are their business benefits and challenges?27

34. UsesPubs , Restaurants, Coffee shops (e.g. Starbucks)Colleges and Universities (e.g. DTU)Stadiums, casinos, groceries, hospitals and department storesTrain stations for Internet connectivityLogistics - Truck drivers can tap the Internet and communicate scheduling and other data back to home base without deviating from their routes(e.g. Walmart does this)VPN on the move in case the city is equipped with wifi28

35. BenefitsWi-Fi uses unlicensed radio spectrum .So, no licenses to be purchased.reduce associated costs of network connection and expansions.Places where cables cannot be run, such as outdoor areas and historical buildingsIf sites are close by, such as across the street, a directional antenna can be used to avoid digging trenches under roads to connect the sites.29

36. DrawbacksPower consumption is fairly high compared to some other standards, making the battery life and heat a concern to some users.Spectrum assignments and operational limitations are not consistent worldwide30

37. Competing TechnologiesBluetoothWi-MAX31

38. ConclusionFactors Ranking32

39. “Once you go wireless, you will never want to use a cable again.”33

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