1: ZigBee Essential Facts and Features > ZigBee Foundations

ZigBee Foundations

This page describes the basic software architecture of ZigBee and the wireless network standard that forms the foundation of ZigBee.

Basic Software Architecture

ZigBee offers high-level functionality concerned with network structure, message routing and security. This functionality is provided by the ZigBee software layer. This layer sits above another layer concerned with low-level network operation such as addressing and message transmission/reception - this is referred to as the Physical/Data Link level. The application is the highest level software, sitting above the ZigBee layer.

This basic architecture is illustrated in the diagram on the right.

The Physical/Data Link level is based on the IEEE 802.15.4 wireless network standard, described below.

IEEE 802.15.4 Foundation

As indicated above, the ZigBee software sits on top of the Physical/Data Link level, which is provided by the IEEE 802.15.4 standard. This standard brings many of the fundamental principles of ZigBee networks, including:

• Ultra-low power consumption
• Use of unlicensed radio bands
• Easy installation
• Low cost

ZigBee builds on the IEEE 802.15.4 functionality by adding capabilities for more flexible network topologies, intelligent message routing and enhanced security measures.

The Physical/Data Link level comprises two IEEE 802.15.4 layers:

• MAC (Media Access Control) sub-layer
• PHY (Physical) layer

These are illustrated in the diagram on the right and are described later in the course.

Move your cursor over a software level to see more information

Click "Next Page" to continue.