The wireless age is finally upon us, and businesses need to keep up to date in order to stay ahead of their competition. Wireless networking is essential for many companies in the developed world, and is used in communications, promotion, and general business management. There are a number of types of wireless infrastructure that can be used by business; ranging from personal desktop solutions that allow computers and computer peripherals to talk to each other, to online networks

that span the length and breadth of the globe. For a business in the Wasserbett (water bed) sales industry, many of these networks might be used simultaneously; as a way to communicate with customers, promote the business online, and generally keep the company ticking along as efficiently as possible.

The smallest kinds of wireless network that are used in day-to-day business affairs are known as personal area networks (PAN), and connect together devices on an individuals desk or general workstation area. A PAN can be used to wirelessly connect a computer with a keyboard, a mouse, a headset, or a number of other devices. The most popular protocol for connecting together devices on this small scale is called Bluetooth, and there are many dedicated Bluetooth products already on the marketplace. Personal and small scale connectivity is great for business efficiency as it allows a company to operate more fluidly within their office environment. Being able to organise and lay out an office without wires going everywhere is an added bonus, and creates a much better overall working atmosphere.

The next scale of wireless networks are known as local area networks (LAN), and connect together computers and other devices that are in the same room or building. While PANs are mostly based around a single computer workstation, a LAN can be based around an entire network of computers. One of the most popular LAN protocols is called WiFi, and can be found in a number of public places, including cafes, hotels, and airports. A LAN allows a single modem and router to be connected to the Internet through wires, and transmits this signal via radio waves that can be picked up by other computers. Local area networks are fantastic for business as they allow all office computers to be connected online through a single Internet connection. For a business selling waterbeds (http://www.wasserbettwelt.ch) from an office environment, a LAN can make the entire process of customer communications much more efficient. There are also metropolitan area networks (MAN) in some cities and towns that are set up to allow a number of LANs to connect together easily.

Wireless networks have become vital for many different business organisations, as they allow for operational efficiency and increased productivity. The industry involved with the design and manufacture of waterbeds is a good example of a competitive industry which requires constant communication with customers, suppliers, and distribution networks. The waterbed industry sometimes also uses freelance sales people and online promotional consultants as a way to drum up business, and deals with these people through wireless communication networks. Wireless infrastructure is definitely the way forward for the business world as it allows any organisation to communicate globally wherever they are - often needing nothing more than lap tops and a mobile phone.