Wireless networks use radio frequency, as do other devices such as cell phones. In 1997, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) developed the IEEE 801.11 standard which defines and regulates radio physical layers.

Wireless utilizes the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. They have an operating range of up to 150 feet indoors, and 1,500 feet outdoors. The data rates (speed) of a network and security vary depending upon which standard of wireless is implemented.

In 1999, two layers were developed: 802.11b, with a data rate of up to 11 Mbps using the 2.4GHz bandwidth and 802.11a, with a data rate from 6 to 54 Mbps using the 5 GHZ bandwidth. In 2003, 802.11g was developed, with data rates from 6-54 Mbps using the 2.4GHZ bandwidth. 802.11a is the most common.