CWISA-102 Certified Wireless IoT Solutions Administrator Questions and Answers

• Cloud Connectivity Relies on IP: Most cloud-based services operate via the internet, which utilizes Internet Protocol (IP) at Layer 3 of the network model.
• Flexibility: Various Layer 2 technologies (Ethernet, Wi-Fi) can connect to a Layer 3 network that ultimately provides Internet access
• BLE Exception: Bluetooth Low Energy can have cloud connectivity, but often through gateways and not as a direct Layer 2 connection.
• Eliminating Incorrect Options: IPX/SPX is an outdated protocol, and cellular is only one possible way to achieve Internet access.

References:

• OSI Model: Descriptions of Network Layers, especially Layer 2 (Data Link) and Layer 3 (Network).
• Cloud Architecture: Diagrams showing how devices commonly access cloud resources through internet-based infrastructures.

• Attenuation: Describes the progressive loss of signal strength as it travels through a medium (like air, cables, walls). It's caused by factors like absorption, distance, and obstacles.
• Other Phenomena:

References

• Attenuation: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attenuation

• Captive Portals for Guest Access: These are web pages that intercept users' requests before granting full internet access. They often require agreeing to terms, entering basic information, or viewing ads.
• Hospitality Fit: Captive portals are simple to deploy, require minimal user setup, and provide control for the hospitality provider (e.g., usage limits).
• Why Other Options Are Less Common:

References:

• Captive Portals: Explanations of how they work and their use cases.
• Guest Wi-Fi in Hospitality: Best practices highlight the prevalence of captive portals in this industry.

• Free Space Path Loss (FSPL): Describes how a radio signal weakens as it travels through open space, even without obstacles. It's caused by the signal spreading out, resulting in decreased power density at the receiver.
• Calculation: FSPL depends on distance and frequency.

References

• Free Space Path Loss: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Free-space_path_loss

• IEEE 802.15.4: The IEEE 802.15.4 standard is a fundamental specification for low-rate wireless personal area networks (LR-WPANs). It serves as the basis for many wireless IoT protocols.
• IEEE's Role: The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is the organization responsible for creating, maintaining, and publishing the 802.15.4 standard.

References

• IEEE 802.15.4 Standard: https://standards.ieee.org/standard/802_15_4-2020.html
• IEEE Website: https://www.ieee.org/

• Smart Building Core Benefit: Smart building technologies primarily aim to optimize a building's operational efficiency through automation and data-driven insights.
• Efficiency Examples:

References

• Smart Buildings: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart_building
• Articles on Benefits of Smart Buildings: A quick search will yield many resources detailing these advantages.

• Automation for Consistency: Scripts eliminate the potential for human error during repetitive configuration tasks on multiple devices. This ensures uniformity across the wireless solution.
• Speed and Efficiency: Scripts can be much faster than manual configuration, particularly in large deployments.
• Other Benefits: While scripts might aid signal strength (e.g., optimizing settings) or enhance solution capabilities, their core value in configuration is reducing errors.

References:

• Network Automation: Benefits of using scripts for configuration management.
• Configuration Management Best Practices: Emphasize the importance of consistency and repeatability.

• WBAN Range: Wireless Body Area Networks (WBANs) specialize in short-range communication around the human body. Typical ranges fall within 1-2 meters.
• Purpose: This range is designed to:

References

• WBAN Overview: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Body_area_network
• WBAN Research Paper (Check Range Discussion): https://www.mdpi.com/2224-2708/11/4/67

• Cloud-based applications drive bandwidth usage: Applications like Google Suite, Microsoft 365, and video conferencing (Zoom, Teams) are commonly used in educational settings. These rely on cloud servers, requiring significant downloads and uploads.
• Shift towards online learning: More schools are utilizing online learning platforms and resources, further increasing their dependence on cloud-based solutions.
• Streaming, torrents, wearables less impactful: Streaming music and torrent sites can contribute, but their impact is generally less significant. Wearables in education are still niche despite their potential.

References

• Trends in education technology: Reports on the rise of cloud-based learning platforms in schools.
• Network usage studies in schools: Research on bandwidth usage patterns can confirm the primary drivers of traffic in educational settings.

• Lab Purpose: Wireless testing labs offer controlled settings to:
• Other Benefits (While not the primary benefit):

References

• Benefits of IT Labs: Can be extended from wireless to broader IT experimentation and learning. (Articles on this topic are readily available)

• LoRa: This refers to the underlying radio modulation technique using Chirp Spread Spectrum (CSS). It defines how data is physically encoded onto the wireless signal.
• LoRaWAN: This is the network protocol built on top of LoRa. It manages device communication, network topology, and aspects like security. It operates at the MAC sublayer of the Data Link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model
• LoRa vs. LoRaWAN: Key takeaway is that LoRa is the physical layer technology, while LoRaWAN adds the networking layer for management.

References:

• LoRa Modulation: Technical explanations of Chirp Spread Spectrum (CSS).
• LoRaWAN Specification: Official documentation detailing the network architecture and MAC layer functions.
• OSI Model: Descriptions of the Data Link layer and its role in networking.

• Consumer Smart Devices Limitation: Many consumer-oriented smart devices are designed for simplicity and cost-effectiveness, leading to reliance on the crowded 2.4 GHz band.
• Consequences:

• Ongoing Monitoring for Adaptability: Wireless networks are dynamic environments. Ongoing monitoring is essential because:

References

• Importance of Wireless Network Monitoring: Resources will detail its role in proactive management

• Purpose of POC: A proof-of-concept (POC) validates the feasibility and potential value of a solution within its intended operational environment.
• Scaling: POCs are small-scale, allowing for quicker and less costly testing before committing to a full-scale deployment.
• Real-world Evaluation: Unlike manufacturer demos, a POC exposes the system to the unique variables (e.g., interference, usage patterns) present in the user's specific setting.

References:

• IT project management: Materials discussing the role of proof-of-concept phases and their goals.

• LoRa Modulation: LoRa (Long Range) is a proprietary wireless technology that utilizes Chirp Spread Spectrum (CSS) modulation.
• CSS Characteristics:

References

• LoRa: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LoRa
• Chirp Spread Spectrum (CSS): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chirp_spread_spectrum

• IEEE's Role: The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is a global organization critical in developing and promoting technical standards across various fields, including wireless technologies.
• Standards Work: IEEE creates wireless technology standards like:

References

• IEEE: https://www.ieee.org/

• Legacy Support: The primary reason to continue using older wireless technologies is the need to connect with devices that don't support newer standards (e.g., old sensors or equipment).
• Other Reasons (Not as Strong):