Wi Fi Technology
Wi-Fi, also known as “wireless fidelity” is a wireless technology based on the 802.11 network. Wi-Fi is an excellent technology that makes it possible for computers and personal digital assistants (PDA’s) to connect to the internet wirelessly. This technology makes it possible for users to access data online whenever they are near an access point, which is commonly referred to as a “hotspot”. While there are both advantages and disadvantages of Wi-Fi technology, I believe that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages and that Wi-Fi will get better, faster, and more secure in time. During the late 90’s the 802.11 network was released for wireless local area networks (WLAN’s). This wireless network allows users with wireless devices to access the internet at any hotspot. Hotspots are located in airport terminals, coffee shops, Colleges, and even major cities. This technology allows casual users to go to the local coffee shop with their laptop computer and enjoy a coffee while surfing the web. At the same time it allows business users to access their work email or check out their itinerary while at the airport waiting for their flight. “802.11 has helped form the foundation of the future of an invisible nervous system that is growing all around us. For the first time in history, location no longer limits the ability to communicate”(Drumheller, 2006). There are many advantages of Wi-Fi. Hotspots are located in most cities and are available worldwide. With Wi-Fi you are not limited to indoors as there are no cables or wires to worry about. It’s a very efficient way of providing internet access, as there are no cables needed to connect, which can be a burden when trying to connect more than one device in separate locations at home. Wi-Fi is also great for video gamers as they can use the Nintendo DS handheld game system to connect through a Wi-Fi hotspot and play a multiplayer game against another gamer in a different country. There are disadvantages
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