We use WiFi for different things, all in a bid to conveniently connect to and access the internet through computers, smartphones, tablets without the stress and complications of setting up physical cables. You know its importance, but do you know what WiFi Stands for? We will talk about it here.
Simply, WiFi stands for Wireless Fidelity. This name was carved out by a branding organization. They describe a technology for radio wireless local connection of devices based on the IEEE 802.11 protocols, which are followed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
Let’s talk about the initial version of the IEEE 802.11 standards, which was released in 1992. Its origin dated back to 1985 and the release of the ISM band for unauthorized use by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission.
How Does WiFi Work?
Similar to the traditional transistor Radio, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) network transmits data through the airwaves using radio signals, which is a type of electromagnetic radiation possessing wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum lengthier than infrared light.
WiFi radio waves basically possess the frequency of either 2.4 gigahertz 0r 5.8 gigahertz. These WiFi frequency bands are subsequently subdivided into multiple networks with each channel potentially being shared by many different networks.
When a file is downloaded via a WiFi connection, a device known as a wireless router first comes in contact with the data from the internet via your broadband connection and then turns it into radio waves. This wireless router proceeds to emit the radio waves to the surrounding area and the wireless device that initiated the file download captures and decodes them.
Due to the fact that the WiFi network depends on radio waves, they can be interrupted or disrupted by other WiFi networks or various electronics like microwave ovens, cordless telephones, televisions, Bluetooth devices, and transistor radios.
To make sure that maximum WiFi performance is achieved, network administrators often make use of WiFi analyzers such as NetSpot in visualizing, analyzing, and managing WiFi connections.
Although NetSpot is used by experts and professionals, it is suitable for home users who lack the time to learn about the nitty-gritty of network administration yet they still wish to enjoy a swift WiFi speed they subscribed for.
What Does WiFi Security Protocols Stand For?
WiFi security standards protect Wireless connections from unauthorized access or damage or threat to computers and other devices using wireless networks. A major basic wireless security is Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). This security protocol was officially endorsed in 1997 and regretfully denounced in 2004 with accusations of having security limitations.
WiFi Protected Access (WPA) and WiFi Protected Access II (WPA2) superseded WEP as they became accessible in 2003 and 2004 respectively.
Understanding the meaning of WiFi enables you to navigate the wide area of various technologies and communication protocols, especially wireless oriented ones. This knowledge also makes it easier to use a WiFi analyzer like NetSpot with which you can optimize your home network for optimum performance. A WiFi analyzer can also solve all common WiFi problems lie dead spots, interference, or poor signal strength.
What does Portable WiFi Hotspot stand for?
In discussing what WiFi stands for, it’s important to cut across the WiFi hotspot. This is a mobile hotspot obtained through a smartphone carrier. It’s a small portable device that uses cellular towers that transmit ultra-speed 3G or 4G broadband signals. 5G is now inclusive in certain parts of the world where it has been launched.
Multiple technological devices such as iPhones, iPad, and laptops can connect wirelessly to the host WiFi hotspot which is connected to the internet anywhere, anytime. This is a more reliable and satisfactory option when compared to using uncertain and threat prone to public WiFi hotspots.
Types of WiFi deployments
There are four different types of WiFi deployments that an organization or institution can choose in creating a wireless network. Each deployment is suitable for various needs.
- Centralized deployment
This is the most common type of wireless network system. It is traditionally used in large areas where buildings are close to each other and networks are in close proximity. This deployment facilitates an easier upgrade of the WiFi network and enables advanced wireless functionality.
Its controllers are based on-premises and they are installed in a centralized position.
- Cloud-based deployment
A wireless network system that uses the cloud to manage network devices deployed on-premises at multiple locations. This means whenever you’re in that vicinity, you can easily connect to the WiFi
- Converged deployment
This is a wireless network solution designed to suit small campuses or institutions. It gives customers the ultimate consistency in their wired and wireless connections. This deployment converges wireless and wired on one network device, an access switch, and further performs the double role of both wireless controller and switch.
How have you always perceived WiFi to work or what did you think it stood for? perhaps this article enlightened you on a few things about what WiFi stands for, we would love to know in the comment section.