What is Wi-Fi? – Functions, Networks, Limitations

What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that allows devices to communicate by sending and receiving radio waves. Wi-Fi technology uses radio waves to provide high-speed networks and Internet connections. Wi-Fi technology allows electronic devices to connect to a wireless Local Area Network (LAN) using various radio bands like the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands. Wi-Fi stands for Wireless Fidelity.

Be it schools, malls, or even hospitals Wi-Fi has become one of the most popular ways to access the Internet. From browsing the internet on the laptop to streaming your favourite TV shows, Wi-Fi is the technology that keeps connected.

Computers, mobile phones, and other equipment can interface with the internet without cables. The network’s wireless part is called a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN).

History of Wi-Fi

Wireless Wi-Fi has transformed communication and operations worldwide for the past two decades. One of the main steps in the development of Wi-Fi was the invention of radio frequency hopping technology by Hedy Lamarr and George Antheil.

The Australian radio astronomer John O’Sullivan, together with his coworkers Terence Percival, Diet Ostry, Graham Daniels, and John Deane, created a crucial patent that is used in Wi-FI. It was the byproduct of a Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) research effort. This experiment was done to detect erupting small black holes the size of an atomic particle but it failed.

A device was required to establish its identity with an Access Point ( AP) or router to connect to a network. 802.11 protocol offered link rates of up to 2 Mbit/s when introduced in 1997. In 1999, 802.11b was updated which enabled link speeds of 11 Mbit/s. Currently, 2.4 Mbps link speed.

How does Wi-fi work?

Wi-Fi is not the internet; rather, it accesses the internet through a wireless router. Radio waves are used in Wi-Fi connections to transport data between the device and a router through frequencies.

A Wi-Fi network transmits data through a network. A wireless adaptor is required to transform data into radio signals. The router receives the signals through an antenna and decodes them. After that, the signal is then sent to the Internet over a connected ethernet connection.

One router can connect multiple devices to the internet but all the devices need wireless adapters.

Identifying Wi-Fi Network

Wi-Fi devices may also use a user interface (UI) graphic on the display to indicate establishing a network connection. When users switch between Wi-Fi networks offering various user experiences, UI visuals adapt accordingly. A WiFi6 connection is indicated when a device displays a signal indicator visual with the number 6.

Types of Wi-Fi Connection

Different types of wireless networks can easily be set up at their homes, offices, and schools.

1. Wi-Fi router

This connection has some advantages and disadvantages

Advantages are :

• It is very easy of set up,
• Allow mobility within the router’s (wireless access point) coverage area
• Allowing the connection of multiple devices is one of the benefits.

Drawbacks are:

• Bandwidth is constrained
• as more devices join the same Wi-Fi network speed is slow
• from other electromagnetic devices in the house, it can get possible interference

2. 4G LTE home internet

4G LTE offers better speeds & dependability. This is best suited for use in remote areas where few options for internet access are available. It offers high-speed internet access delivered through mobile networks and cell phone towers. It has an average download speed of about 25 Mbps.

Drawbacks are: It has limited availability. Also has expensive setup and service costs

3. Mobile hotspot or a Jackpot

Nowadays, a phone and a jetpack are two hotspot gadgets. In case of occasional requirements, mobile hotspots and jackpots are perfect alternatives. It is very simple to use and does not need to purchase any additional equipment.

The drawback of mobile hotspots is that they quickly drain out the data and battery life.

A jetpack supports more connections and has a wider wireless Wi-Fi coverage area. Additionally, the smartphone’s battery power remains unaffected since it is a separate device.

4. 5g Wi-Fi

5g Wi-Fi provides a larger capacity than 4G, much quicker speeds, and lower latency than most people experience at home using a new spectrum of potent radio frequencies across a wireless network.

Advantages of using 5g wi-fi

Wi-Fi comes with its own set of advantages over a fixed line. Let’s understand them.

• Wi-Fi is more convenient than wired networks

At the same time, many people can join a wireless network. This usability and convenience are not found in wired networks. Also, it takes longer to set up a wired network and is difficult to give access to many users.

• 5g Wi-Fi is easy to install

Installing wireless networks is easy and less expensive.

• Wi-Fi is easily accessible

With wireless Wi-Fi, normal tasks like sending emails, doing bank transactions, and reviewing work reports can be done from any location as long as you are within range of a Wi-Fi Access Point. These tasks include sending emails, doing bank transactions, and reviewing work reports.

Limitations of Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi also comes with its share of limitations, which are:

• Range coverage is limited as the signal gets weaker if moved far away from the 5g Wi-Fi router.
• Interference from other devices, including microwave ovens and telephones, can act as jammers to the Wi-Fi signal.
• Power usage is substantial
• A data breach can often occur if the router is not secured with virtual firewalls or unencrypted data.
• The speed of the internet decreases as the number of users increases as it has limited bandwidth.

With the rapid explosion of mobility, wireless Wi-Fi has become an important network connectivity option while accessing the internet and mobile devices. Network connectivity from the wireless network provider is also an option, but the costs of operating that is much higher than broadband.

FAQs on Wi-Fi

What is the Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that offers wireless high-speed Internet access using radio waves.

What is the difference between Wi-Fi and the Internet?

One major difference between Wi-Fi and the Internet is that Wi-Fi is a local connection and a worldwide connection.

What is Wi-Fi full form?

Wi-Fi full form stands for Wireless Fidelity. It is the wireless technology standard for wireless Internet access. It serves as a substitute for many kinds of wires and cable connections.

What is the application of Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi offers a wireless technological means of connection to the internet. The Internet is required for various tasks, including web browsing, designing graphics, emailing, and researching.