This book explores the fundamental concepts, basic theory, and key principles of 802.11 networks with roaming capabilities. Today, we increasingly expect to find public Wide Local Area Network (WLAN) 802.11 access in our airports, public spaces, and hotels, and we want to maintain our connections when we're mobile and using 802.11 WLANs.

However, 802.11 was not originally designed with roaming capabilities and can't, in its ''pure'' form, support seamless roaming between different hotspots and other 802.11 access points. This book details the theory behind various 802.11 extensions to permit roaming and describes how these extensions can be successfully implemented in 802.11 WLANs. Coverage of User Authentication in 802.11 is reviewed as is roaming between 802.11 and other wireless technologies. Wireless technologies and application programming interfaces are given their due with generous coverage as well.

* Offers a comprehensive treatise on Wi-Fi 802.11 roaming by comparing/contrasting it to cellular roaming theory and techniques
* Emerges as a ''one stop'' resource for design engineers charged with fulfilling the market need for seamless 802.11 device roaming capabilities
* Builds upon the knowledge base of a professional audience without delving into long discussions of theory long since mastered