Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi, short for Wireless Fidelity, is a wireless networking technology that enables devices to connect to the internet and communicate over a local network using radio frequencies. Based on IEEE 802.11 standards, Wi-Fi operates primarily in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, with the recent introduction of the 6 GHz band through Wi-Fi 6E. This new 6 GHz band provides additional bandwidth, reduces congestion, and enables faster data rates, especially in environments with many connected devices.

Wi-Fi networks are established through a wireless router, which connects to a modem and distributes the internet signal wirelessly to devices. Wi-Fi performance depends on several factors, including the router’s capabilities, network traffic, and potential interference from other devices. Advanced protocols, such as WPA2 and WPA3, are used to secure Wi-Fi connections by encrypting data transmitted between the device and the router, protecting against unauthorized access.

The Wi-Fi naming conventions have been simplified for ease of understanding:

• Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n): Operates on 2.4 GHz, with speeds up to 600 Mbps.
• Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac): Operates on 5 GHz, with speeds up to 3.5 Gbps.
• Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax): Operates on both 2.4 and 5 GHz, offering higher capacity and speeds up to 9.6 Gbps.
• Wi-Fi 6E: Extends Wi-Fi 6 to the 6 GHz band, further reducing interference and enhancing performance in crowded areas.

Wi-Fi technology is ubiquitous in homes, offices, and public spaces, providing a flexible and convenient alternative to wired connections.