Like wired networks, wireless networks also can be arranged in different topologies. The
three major network topologies available for IEEE 802.11 WLANs are the Basic Service
Set, the Extended Service Set, and the Independent Service Set.
The Basic Service Set (BSS), also called the infrastructure mode, is shown is Figure
10-42. In this configuration, a central wireless device called an access point or wireless
access point (WAP), is used to serve all wireless clients. The access point is similar to a
hub in the LAN star topology, except it provides network services to wireless clients
instead of wired clients. Because access points use a single communications medium, the
air, they broadcast all traffic to all clients, just as a hub would do in a wired network.
Typically, the access point itself is connected to a wired network, so wireless clients can
access the wired network.
The second wireless topology is the Extended Service Set (ESS), as shown in Figure
10-43 on the next page. An Extended Service Set is made up of two or more Basic
Service Set networks. Thus, using an ESS topology, wireless access can be expanded over
a wide area. Each access point provides wireless services over a limited range. As a client
moves away from one access point and closer to another, a process called roaming automatically
allows the client to associate with the stronger access point, allowing for
undisrupted service.