By Tarun Wig 

Given the central role wireless networks play in the organization today. Wi-Fi is gaining more popularity than ever. Wi-Fi is basically a trademarked phrase which means IEEE 802.11x.Wi-Fi uses radio waves to provide network connectivity and is used to get connectivity of internet almost anywhere at home, work, school, airports hotels and even restaurants. The major advantage of Wi-Fi being that it is compatible with every operating system, game devices and printer devices.

Tarun Wig is co-founder, Innefu Labs

How Wi-Fi works?

As discussed above Wi-Fi uses radio waves also known as radio frequency (RF) to transmit information between networks. It is necessary for a computer to have a wireless adapter. The Wi-Fi works with no physical wired connections using RF technology. RF technology is a frequency with electromagnetic spectrum associated with radio wave propagation. When an RF current is supplied to an antenna, an electromagnetic field is created which is able to propagate through space. The highlight of this technology are the access points (AP).

Access points play a vital role, they broadcast the wireless signal that computers can detect. In order to connect to access point join a wireless network, as mentioned above computers and other devices must be enabled with network adapters. Wireless networks work as a two way traffic, data received from internet will also pass through the access point to be coded into a computer signal that will be received by the computer’s wireless adapter.

Benefits of Wi-Fi technology

Global Accessibility: Stay connected from anywhere at any time. Almost all electronic devices sold today are Wi-Fi capable and the greatest part of Wi-Fi technology is that it is globally acceptable and a global standard.

Ease of Communication: Wi-Fi is convenient with the public wireless networks and handheld devices becoming popular. Wi-Fi allows users to stay connected all the time. Businesses are able to maintain consistent flow of communication in offices with the help of this technology. Employees can stay connected at all the times. Thus, promoting productivity at work place and enhance ability of the company.

Cost Effective: Wireless Network hardware is reasonable, in comparison to wired cables, which are difficult to install and manage. This technology is easy to install and build a secure network that can support all employees. Wi-Fi is easy to expand and additional users can be added easily unlike wired connection, which needs additional cables and installation.

What are Hotspots?

Hotspots are used to define an area where Wi-Fi access is available. This can either be a closed wireless network at home or a public place. Similarly, to access the wireless network there is need of network adapters. Most of the laptops and devices these days have built-in wireless transmitter already, which detect Wi-Fi hotspots and request connection.

Therefore Wi-Fi technology is the next generation technology with advances such as using the much faster frequency such as 802.11ac as compared to 802.11n and it doesn’t seem to be out anytime soon.

vndedit@cybermedia.co.in

(The author Tarun Wig is co-founder, Innefu Labs)