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Wi-Fi and Wireless Networks

Wi-Fi is the most common wireless technology used for connecting devices together on small business/home networks.

Wireless (WI-FI) is available on almost all new laptops and PDAs, and if not present it can be added by simply inserting a USB WI-FI adapter or network card.

Computers usually communicate with each other over Wi-Fi by connecting to a Wireless Access point (WAP). Stand alone access points are available, and are generally used in hybrid networks (Ethernet and Wi-Fi), but in small business/home networks the access point is generally built into the DSL router (Wireless Router).

The area covered by the Access Point is often know as the hotspot. For todays technology the coverage area is :

  • 802.11g standard (most common 2007), range indoors is approx 40 meters. However the range and data throughput varies considerably depending on the surrounding environment.
  • 802.11n not yet standardized but devices will be on the market in 2008, and it offers greater data throughput( 256Mbit/s) and increased range (70m) over the existing 802.11g (54Mbit/s and 40m).

Wireless Hotspots

A hotspot is a location that offers Wireless (Wi-Fi) access. They are found in offices/homes that use Wi-Fi and in public locations like bars, airports and train stations.

In this situation Wi-Fi is rather unique as it is used as a Local Area Networking technology and a public network access technology.

There are three types of hotspots that you will encounter

  • Private Network Hotspot- This is the coverage area of your local wireless network that you normally connect to.
  • Public Free Hotspot- Available for free in public spaces like coffee shops, hotels etc -See Free Wireless Internet for more details.
  • Commercial Hotspots-Available in public spaces like coffee shops, hotels but require payment usually via Paypal or credit card.

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Category: WiFi