802.11 was designed so that to upper levels the network behaves like a standard wired network. To accomplish this the link layer engages in error correcting functions that are not usually employed at the link layer in wired LANs. Power can range from 10 MW to 1 watt. In trying to accommodate every possible variation in technology, the standard specifies an IR physical layer as well. The standard also provides for optional time-bounded services such as voice and video communications by allowing access points to control communications using polling methods.
Many vendors already provide interoperable equipment.
You may need a wireless LAN that operates at higher speeds. Deploying a wireless LAN is relatively straightforward. A t the wireless nodes you must install the wireless network card as well as the appropriate software drivers which your network protocol stacks use to access the wireless card. These drivers come with the card. The difficult part is knowing where to install your access points.