Ash (331)Wi-Fi connects us through so many devices, it's not unreasonable to have a few questions about the wireless technology. Where did it come from and how exactly does it work? In this guide, we'll take a look at some of the most pressing questions about Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi is a wireless network technology that allows devices to communicate on specific wireless frequencies. It's based on the IEEE 802.11 standard and is one of the most common forms of wireless support available today.
Wi-Fi is short for "wireless fidelity". The official way to spell the term is "Wi-Fi", as confirmed by the Wi-Fi Alliance.
ALOHAnet is one of the earliest reported cases of wireless network support, using wireless ultra-high frequency (UHF) bands in the early 1970's to transmit network packets between islands in Hawaii. This system is regarded as one of the earliest precursors to modern Wi-Fi.
Today, the modern Wi-Fi standard is maintained by the Wi-Fi Alliance, an organization that determines terms and parameters for today’s Wi-Fi technology.
Wi-Fi uses predetermined frequency bands to connect devices so they can transmit data packets between each other wirelessly. Networks require a wireless router to create a Wi-Fi network. Devices must be within a specific physical range of the router to maintain the wireless connection.
If you want to connect to Wi-Fi, you will need a device capable of wireless connection. Most devices have network options under the settings screen.
You will need to know the name of the network as well as any required passwords to connect.
Wi-Fi passwords are nothing more than a string of characters. You can transmit the password via text, email, verbally, or even via writing. If you want to transmit the password with a little more security, you can always opt to transfer the Wi-Fi password between smartphones.
Wi-Fi signal strength is determined by the wireless router. If you aren't getting enough signal, you may want to use a signal booster to increase the wireless support range. Check out our guide on how to boost your Wi-Fi signal.
Wi-Fi extenders or boosters are devices that connect to your router to increase the physical range in which devices can connect to your Wi-Fi network.
Check the network settings on your device. Make sure wireless is enabled. Look for a list of available Wi-Fi networks, you should see an indicator for whichever network you're connected to.
Your Wi-Fi password may be provided to you by your ISP. If you aren't sure what it is, you can always use your router to set a new password. Check out our guide on how to find your Wi-Fi password.
Access your router using its IP address and a browser window. Log in to the admin account on your router. Look for wireless network settings. You can set a new password in the network key field. It may be labeled PSK.
There are several ways to get access to free Wi-Fi. The easiest way is to find a business where free wireless is offered to patrons. Visit our guide on how to find free Wi-Fi for more tips.
Wi-Fi calling allows users to receive and make phone calls using Wi-Fi instead of the cellular network. This is extremely useful in areas with little to no service.
There are several ways to get free WiFi. It can be tricky, but it's not impossible. A lot goes into powering a WiFi network—from building the infrastructure to technical maintenance.