Wi-Fi - Wireless connectivity through your laptop

Wireless internet technology has progressed rapidly over the last decade, and many laptops are now offered with Wi-Fi capability as standard. Wi-Fi originally referred to inbuilt wireless local area networks, but its meaning has broadened to encompass the wireless interface between mobile computing devices, including laptops.

What is wireless connection used for?

Using a Wi-Fi enabled device, such as a laptop, notebook or PDA, one can connect to the Internet wherever an access point exists. Gradually, the web of access points across the country is becoming more widespread. Known as 'hotspots', public access wireless networks may encompass several miles, or beyond in a mesh network such as the City of London.

The range and scope of Wi-Fi is expanding constantly. The primary usage of Wi-Fi is internet access, but Wi-Fi is also used to connect devices, be it a phone to a computer, a camera to a computer, or a printer to a camera.

Nowadays, a vast variety of consumer electronic devices incorporate wireless connectivity as standard. Wi-Fi can be used in the home (wireless broadband, for instance), by gamers (Playstation portable), and even in business. Wi-Fi in business is centred on providing and regulating access points, cutting down costs by using VoIP, and basing the business around a proactive, self-managed network.

What are wireless hotspots?

Wi-Fi hotspots are a large and growing phenomena, giving consumers free or paid-for access to the net in all kinds of unlikely locations. For instance, paid Wi-Fi is available at sites such as Starbucks. Many pubs and restaurants offer Wi-Fi hotspots as standard, making them ideal locations for informal business meetings.

How does wireless technology work?

Wi-Fi works by employing a radio technology known as IEEE 802.11. This provides secure, fast, reliable wireless connection. Usually, Wi-Fi has access points that broadcast their network name via packets, known as beacons. Wi-Fi networks are used to connect to the Internet or to other computers, using a spectrum 2.4GHz. This channel number does vary slightly throughout the world.

What are the advantages of Wi-Fi connection?

Depending on connectivity, Wi-Fi can open up a world of possibilities. For instance, wireless connection cuts out all cables, allowing you to work wherever you are, if in reach of an access point. The costs of Wi-Fi are falling all the time; it is economical and constantly improving. Although problems with open access and network security have been identified, wireless security is becoming stronger all the time.

What do I need for a wireless connection?

Laptops or desktop PCs running Windows 2000 and beyond usually face few compatibility issues. However, wireless devices may require drivers from the manufacturer in order to run successfully. How your wireless connection is configured and managed depends on your version of Windows. Newer versions of Windows, such as Vista, have made Wi-Fi support more accessible. When it comes to Apple Mac, both hardware and software are advanced in wireless terms, although older software may also face compatibility issues.

What is the future for Wi-Fi?

The future is likely to see Wi-Fi and wireless connection become simpler to use, more widespread, and more integrated throughout society. Everyone from executives to schoolchildren are discovering wireless connectivity using their laptops. Already, whole schools, offices and institutions have wireless connectivity throughout. As the technology advances, wireless ranges will also become longer.

Wi-Fi and wireless connections are an increasingly large part of modern-day technology. Whereas home internet connections were once based around a modem and a tangle of wires, many homes now have a wireless network. Wi-Fi is used for Internet and VoIP phone access, not to mention connectivity between devices and standard domestic appliances. Wi-Fi itself is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi alliance, an organisation that tests and certifies Wi-Fi equipment.