What is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is short for Wireless Internet.
Modern ADSL, Fibre, Fixed LTE and Mobile routers /modems all have the ability to broadcast a wireless signal in order to enable the user to connect their hardware (computers/ printers/ cellphones) to the internet without a physical connection.
Wi-Fi technology uses radio waves to give users wireless high-speed Internet connections in an area. These areas, known as hotspots can be located in your home, a hotel, a restaurant and any other area where internet is available.
The ability and process to connect to a Wi-Fi network is specific to the device you are using to connect; however, the principle is the same:
- Enable the Wi-Fi function on the device.
- Scan for nearby Wi-Fi Networks.
- Selected the desired Wi-Fi network name.
- Enter the Wi-Fi password and connect.
The difference between Wi-Fi and Internet
The internet is a network of computers and network devices that connect to each other, that can share and access information and communicate worldwide. The internet is a global network of cables, including ADSL, Fibre and wireless connectivity like 3G & LTE.
When you visit a website, your computer sends a request over these wires to a server. A server is where websites and other data are stored, and it works a lot like your computer’s hard drive. Once the request arrives, the server retrieves the website or information requested and sends the correct data back to your computer. All this happens in seconds.
Wi-Fi is used to send this data to a device wirelessly and not via hardware such as a physical cable.
