WLAN (wireless local area network) connections are the technology that was built upon the static cabling system of networks. The advancement came by not having to be tied to a physical network, something that saved a lot of time and money by having to install cables and network access points. By sending the signal out across the airwaves, meant that many users could simply enable their wireless adaptor and get connected. This worked well for both the office and the home environment, for it expanded connectivity and functionality across a wide range. As long as the receiving station is within range, then it is a simple matter of getting connected. Making sure that the WLAN connection is secure is something of a priority. The connection, even though it is deemed to be local, will likely spread beyond the area of the four walls in which it was designed to operate. This does raise questions of security, if someone parked by the side of the building outside could get access to the network. This was something that could not be done with the cabled LAN predecessors, as a physical intervention would be needed. But the development of the wireless local area network technology has naturally come with advanced security protocols, which involve firewalls, strong passwords, limited shared file access and of course the mainstay of WLAN connections, which is encryption. Wireless local area networks have been expanded for free usage within the public domain. By carrying a laptop around, or even a new handset with WLAN capability, means that you can stay connected even outside of those two main environments. Libraries especially offer wireless connection, and you can get access to an Internet connection while waiting in the departure lounge of the airport. For a more social gathering, you can sit in a coffee shop and enjoy a cup of coffee while chatting online over a WLAN connection to friends and family across the world. It is this mobility that makes wireless local area networks so popular. There is no limitation of cabling, and anywhere that you are in range of a wireless connection, means that you can stay connected, as long as you have permission to access that network. For file sharing, printer sharing and Internet connection, WLAN provides a great way to perform every day tasks on the Internet with efficiency. As long as you are securely protected, as long as you have set up your network connection to work in the most efficient way, then you can enjoy the benefits of wireless connectivity to its fullest.