When building a network, installing cabling is not always a practical or cost-effective solution. Wireless network technologies offer an alternative solution for data and voice connectivity.

Both radio-frequency and infra-red systems can be used for external building to building applications, whilst radio-frequency can be used internally.

Wireless LANs offer reliability rivalling conventional cabled solutions and licence fees are generally not required.

Wireless LANs can be part of a completely wireless network, or an extension of your wired LAN.

In the real world, you probably won't switch from a wired LAN to a wireless LAN, but will instead integrate wireless into your network as it makes sense and meets your needs. Once you have a thorough understanding of what wireless can do for you, and what it takes to integrate into your current systems, you can better proceed down the path to a combination of wireless and fixed wiring network solution.