What are Wireless Communication Protocols?

With the years, wired internet communication has been evolving into its wireless format. Wireless communications use on cell phones through wireless internet access is on the rise. More wireless mobile networks, satellite networks, and private wireless communication are slated to become the norm in the coming years.

The set of communication protocols used over the internet is called TCP/IP. This refers to a collection of different protocols with each one having its own specific function. These wireless protocols have been established by a body of International Standards, where a set of rules has been agreed upon as guidelines for communication. A single language for communications has also been agreed upon so that they can be used in almost all platforms around the globe.

While communication protocols can be wired or wireless, there are 9 different wireless protocols as of now, of which the best known are the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Many other standards are being developed in the field of wireless networking, but before choosing any protocol, weigh in the cost of the equipment before choosing the standard that is best for you.

Wireless protocols work by allowing networking devices to exchange information through the use of airwaves and do not require wires to achieve this. Wireless protocols can be divided into three categories, namely – long, medium and short ranges. As the names suggest, the difference between the three is based on the distances covered. While the long-range is measured in miles, the medium-range is measured in more than ten to hundreds of feet; the short-range usually refers to distances that are less than 10 feet apart.

Long-Range

This category of wireless protocols can sacrifice speeds for transmitting data over long distances. They are also being used for data delivery services to individual devices such as laptops and smartphones. GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is the world’s most widely used long-range wireless protocol for data communication between mobile phones.

Medium-Range

Also known as ‘Wireless Personal Area Network’ (WPAN), these medium-range wireless protocols are effective for communications between computers and enhance the traditional wired LANs.

Short-Range

Also known as ‘Wireless Personal Area Network’ (WPAN), they work at lower frequencies between devices that are placed within a short few feet away within the same room. A commonly used example of this protocol is Bluetooth. It can be used for communication between a mobile phone and a wired headset.

Since each category has protocols with different attributes, you will need to select a wireless communication protocol suitable for your needs.