Networking & Internet
Wi-Fi
Definition
Wi-Fi is a family of wireless network protocols, based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards, which are commonly used for local area networking of devices and Internet access. It allows nearby digital devices to exchange data by radio waves.
Why It Matters
Wi-Fi has made internet access ubiquitous and convenient, freeing us from the constraints of physical cables. It is the standard way that mobile devices, laptops, and smart home devices connect to a network.
Contextual Example
You connect your smartphone to the "coffee-shop-wifi" network to browse the internet while having coffee. Your phone is communicating with a wireless access point via Wi-Fi protocols.
Common Misunderstandings
- The term "Wi-Fi" is a trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance and was originally a marketing name, not a technical term.
- Wi-Fi has gone through many versions (e.g., 802.11n, 802.11ac, Wi-Fi 6/802.11ax), each offering faster speeds and better performance.