What is wi fi?
 
Wi fi, which stands for wireless fidelity, is a wireless networking technology used across the globe.

 

 

In a wi fi network, devices connect wirelessly to a wireless router. The router is connected to the Internet by means of a modem, any user within 200 feet or so of the access point can then connect to the Internet. Wi fi networks can either be "open", such that anyone can use them, or "closed", in which case a password is needed. An area blanketed in wireless access is often called a wireless hotspot. Wi fi is technology designed to cater to the lightweight computing systems of the future, which are mobile and designed to consume minimal power. PDAs, laptops, and various accessories as shown below, are designed to be wi fi compatible.

 

 
Cellular Phones
PDA's
Smart Phones
Notebook PC's

All major service providers in Canada offer a selection of
wi fi enabled cell phones. These phones have built in browsers so that their users can surf the internet or check their webmail while in proximity of a wi fi hot spot. It is estimated that 56% of cell phone users will seek wi fi in their next phone purchase.

PDA's or personal digital assistants have long been popular with business professionals.  These devices are the predecessors of today’s smart phones. Users can take advantage of wi fi hot spots to surf the internet in between editing spreadsheets and other business documents.

What do you get when you combine a cellular phone with a PDA? That’s right, you get a smart phone. Smart phones are increasing popular with an estimated 150 million units sold each year. Wi fi offers substantial savings for smart phones users, allowing them to transfer data over the internet rather than a cellular network.

Also known as laptops, these are one of the most popular ways to connect. All new notebook PC's come standard with wi fi chip sets which means every one sold has the ability to connect to a wi fi hotspot. In 2008, notebook PC sales exceeded desktop PC sales. 177 million units are estimated to be sold in 2009.

Net Books
Digital Cameras
VoIP Phones
Gaming Consoles

Wi fi has actually spawned its own category of PC. The net book PC resembles a notebook PC but it is smaller than most portable DVD players.

Wi fi enabled digital cameras have evolved since being introduced in 2004. Originally designed so that users could upload photos to their home PC's, wi fi enabled cameras now allow for users to email photos directly from their cameras while accessing a wi fi.

VoIP (Voice over internet protocol) is an emerging technology that allows users to make calls via a broadband connection. Stand alone units are often found in homes as an alternative to land lines. The integration of VoiP in cell phones allows you to save money through wi fi to make phone calls.

For over a decade, handheld gaming consoles have out sold their TV required counter parts. With over 120 million wi fi enabled handhelds sold, users can use wi fi hotspots to surf the internet or play against one another from around the world.

 

  Copyright @ Wall EyewWi fi 2009