What is Wi-Fi? Back to Basics

We hear the word "Wi-Fi" bandied around like it's been around forever these days. But what exactly is Wi-Fi? What distinguishes it from the internet? What role does it have in connecting you? We'll go over the fundamentals and offer some advice on how to get the most out of your home Wi-Fi.

What exactly is Wi-Fi?

Although we commonly hear these phrases used interchangeably, Wi-Fi and the internet are not the same thing. Wi-Fi is the technology that allows your devices to connect to the internet wirelessly. It also enables internet-connected devices, such as PCs and smart home gadgets, to communicate with one another, basically forming your home network.

What is Wi-Fi and how does it work?

To put it another way, Wi-Fi communicates with your devices by sending and receiving radio waves. Each of your internet-connected gadgets has a wireless adapter, which converts data into a radio signal. An antenna is used to transmit the signal. That signal is received by your wireless router, which then converts it to the internet.

Your router will also accept data from the internet (videos, music, and files) and transmit it to your devices through a radio signal. Wi-Fi uses the frequencies 2.4GHz and 5GHz to transport data; you've probably heard these numbers referred to as Wi-Fi channels. To transmit more data, these frequencies are substantially higher than those utilised by cellphones.

Wi-Fi technology leverages 802.11 networking standards, which come in a variety of speeds and price ranges, to determine how quickly data can be sent. In 1997, the first version of the 802.11 standard was published, with link rates of up to 2 Mbps. The most recent standard, 802.11ax, was introduced in 2019 and is faster than earlier incarnations, less susceptible to interference, and capable of speeds of up to 9.6 Gbps.

What may Wi-Fi be used for?

The internet isn't the only thing you can do with Wi-Fi. Wi-convenience Fi's and connectivity can also make day-to-day tasks considerably easier. You can do the following with Wi-Fi:

• Sync smart home devices and operate them from a single location, such as your smartphone.
• Share files with devices in your immediate vicinity
• Transfer photographs from your camera to your PC wirelessly by streaming audio and movies from one device to another.

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How do I obtain Wi-Fi at home?

If you're like most Americans, your home internet connection is shared by at least eight devices. However, if you want to enjoy the seamless experience that Wi-Fi provides, you'll need to take a few measures to ensure that your home is prepared.

Select a web service provider.

Begin by looking into the many service providers in your area. Determine your monthly budget, the sorts of internet connections that are available and most compatible with your internet activity, and the speeds that are required to accommodate all of your network's users.

Purchase a wireless router as well as a modem.

The majority of suppliers allow you to bring your own equipment. For the finest quality, some may demand you to hire a certain set of equipment straight from them. If you have the time, conduct some research on routers to ensure that your device can handle the speeds and number of devices you want to connect.

Consider getting a Wi-Fi booster.

Once you've established a connection, ensure sure your Wi-Fi coverage is exceptional, especially if you live in a multi-story home. To get your signal to those hard-to-reach places and gadgets, look into a Wi-Fi extender, repeater, or booster.

Read tips and tricks to increase your wifi speed here