What's That Term?: WiFi Network
WiFi is a technology that allows devices to connect to the internet using radio waves. It is used in countless applications, including home networks, public hotspots such as your favorite coffee shop, and enterprise wireless LANs, but what exactly is this ubiquitous term and what does it mean for you? That's what this article is all about, so connect to a secure device and sit back as we learn about this technology.
What is it?
WiFi is, quite simply, a technology that allows devices to connect to the internet wirelessly. WiFi networks use radio waves to communicate with devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets, and this connection allows those devices to access the internet without needing any physical cables.
While it is often thought of as simply a way to get online, it can also be used for a variety of other tasks. For example, it can be used to share files between devices or to stream music and videos. It is also sometimes used in conjunction with Bluetooth to create what's known as a "Personal Area Network" (PAN), which allows devices like phones and laptops to communicate with each other without using an internet connection.
WiFi Networks
WiFi networks come in all shapes and sizes, but they all function in more or less the same way. Because they use radio signals to allow devices to connect to the network, this means they can be used to connect devices anywhere in the range of the signal. WiFi networks are popular because they are relatively easy to set up and use.
There are a few different types of WiFi networks. The two most common types are called hotspots and access points. Hotspots are public WiFi networks that can be used by anyone who has the correct password. Access points are private WiFi networks that can only be used by devices that have been authorized to connect to the network.
Another type of WiFi network is called a mesh network. Mesh networks are made up of multiple access points that work together to create a larger WiFi network. Mesh systems are popular because they can provide better coverage than traditional WiFi networks.
Why you've heard it
WiFi has become ubiquitous in recent years and WiFi networks are being used for a variety of purposes, from connecting devices to the internet, to allowing devices to communicate with each other. It is especially useful for businesses, as it can be used to connect devices such as computers and printers to the internet. WiFi is also commonly used in schools and universities, as it allows students and staff to connect their laptops and tablets to the internet.
Additionally, it is often used in public places such as airports and train stations, as it allows passengers to stay connected while traveling. WiFi is also becoming increasingly common in homes, as more and more people are using WiFi-enabled devices such as smart TVs and home security systems.
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What are the benefits to WiFi
It offers several benefits for both personal and business users. WiFi networks can be set up easily and provide fast, reliable connections to the internet and other devices. It also allows users to move around freely within a wireless range, which can be helpful when working or relaxing in a home or office environment.
Additionally, WiFi networks can be used to connect multiple devices simultaneously, making it easy to share files, photos, and videos between devices. For business users, WiFi networks can also help reduce costs by allowing employees to work from home or remotely.
Security is important
Security is one of the most important aspects of using the technology. Without it, devices can easily be accessed by anyone in the area, which can lead to privacy and security concerns. There are a few different ways to ensure WiFi security, and it's important to understand them all before setting up a network.
The first step in securing a network is choosing a strong password. This should be something that is difficult to guess, and it's a good idea to change it regularly. Additionally, using a password manager can help keep track of all of your different passwords and passphrases.
Next, it's important to make sure that your wireless router is secure. Many high speed routers come with built-in security features, such as firewalls and encryption. If your router doesn't have these features, you can purchase a software or firmware update to add them.
Another way to secure your network is by using a VPN. A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the VPN server, making it impossible for anyone else to see your traffic and masking your IP address. This is a great option for people who need to use public WiFi networks often.
However, it is highly encouraged not to use public WiFi as the threat of a cyber attack is greatly increased when not on a secure network. See our article about using public WiFi for more details.
Overall, security is important for both personal and business use. By taking the necessary steps to secure your network, you can protect yourself from online threats.
WiFi is a technology that allows devices to connect to networks without the need for cables through radio waves. It is an important part of our digital lives and has become increasingly common in recent years. Much like any other piece of technology, it has a combination of incredible benefits and potential cybersecurity risks. If you need help with securing the WiFi network for your business or any other IT security needs, contact Kotman Technology today.
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