Last updated on October 8th, 2023 at 03:08 pm
In recent years, wireless network technologies have replaced the older wired technologies as a way to connect computing devices. They are easier to connect to and use than their wired counterparts. They are also easier and less expensive to set up and use on the go. This makes them highly attractive to computer users on the go.
In this article, we will address:
- What wireless networks are;
- What wireless network technologies are;
- Define Bluetooth;
- Define Wifi; and
- What hotspot is.
Mobile networks have come a long way in their evolution since the first cell phone was developed. To learn more about the evolution of cell phones read mobile networks.
What is a wireless network?
A wireless network is a network that makes use of wireless data connection or radiowaves connection between network nodes. A wireless network allows you to avoid spending money on items that are normally used to connect to the network.
The first wireless network was developed at the University of Hawaii and implemented in June 1971. Some of the wireless networks that are common today are cellphone networks, wireless local area networks, also known by the abbreviation (WLANs), and wireless sensor networks.
What are wireless network technologies?
Wireless network technology is the term we use to refer to the technologies developed and used to connect devices wirelessly, seamlessly, and often while on the go. Wireless networks are growing as busy professionals, digital nomads, and remote workers find them invaluable in maintaining their lifestyles.
If you are interested in learning about wired transmission media be sure to visit our article on wired transmission media.
Define Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a wireless network technology that you use to transfer data between mobile devices and any other device that is equipped with Bluetooth over short distances. Some devices that would have Bluetooth technology installed are computers, music sets, earphones, cellphones, and some motor vehicles.
A fun fact about Bluetooth devices is that they make use of radio waves to have data transferred from one device to another without the use of any type of cable.
⚠️Did you know that being connected to a network does not mean you are on the internet? Many organisations set up different networks to communicate and share information effectively within their organisation. To learn more visit intranet, internet and extranet.
What does WiFi mean
WI-FI, also referred to as wireless fidelity, is a wireless connection network that connects computers, smartphones, and other devices to the Internet. It works by transmitting radio waves from a wireless router to any nearby devices capable of using the internet.
Some types of wifi connections are routers, and mobile hotspots, which most homes use to connect devices to the Internet. It is best for you to use these types of internet connections when on the move. They work by transmitting the radio wave from a device with an internet connection to a device you would need to use to get the job done. These are best for you to use in situations where you live in rural areas. It offers high-speed internet service that is transmitted from a cellphone tower and mobile network with an average speed of 25 Mbps.
What is a hotspot?
We refer to a hotspot as a device that sends out radio waves in an area where people come to connect to the internet. We also sometimes refer to the place or area where the device is located as a hotspot as well. Most hotspots are set up using a router to help broadcast the WiFi signal within a certain distance. All nearby devices would be able to have access to said hotspot. Another more common way you can set up a hotspot is by using a cellphone to help transmit the signal to one or more devices. This is very good if you are traveling as it only requires you to have the internet on your cellphone.