The WiFi is a technology that uses radio waves to provide network connectivity.
A WiFi connection is created using a wireless adapter for creating hotspots in the areas around a wireless router that is connected to the network and allows users to access the network and internet services. Once configured the WiFi provides wireless connectivity of devices with the emission frequencies between 2.4GHz – 5GHz, based on the amount of data on the network.
Wireless technology is known as WiFi or 802.11 widely spread lately and you can connect almost anywhere: at home, at work, in libraries, schools, airports, hotels and restaurants. The big advantage of WiFi is that it is compatible with almost each operating system, game apparatus, and advanced printer.
How WiFi works? Like mobile phones, a WiFi network uses radio waves to transmit information over a network. The computer should include a wireless adapter which translates data sent to a radio signal. This same signal is transmitted through an antenna, a decoder known as a router. Once decoded, the data is sent via a wired Ethernet connection.
The term Hotspot is used to define an area where WiFi access is available. It can be either through a closed wireless network at home or in public places such as restaurants or airports. To access hotspots, your computer must include a wireless adapter. If you use an advanced laptop model, it will likely include a built-in wireless transmitter already. If it does not, you can buy a wireless adapter that will plug into the PCI slot or USB port. Once installed, your system should automatically detect WiFi hotspots and request connection.
If not, you should use a software to handle this task for you.
The term “Access Point» is used to designate a wireless access point (WAP), which is a network hardware device that allows a device compatible with Wi-Fi to connect to a wired network. The WAP usually connects to a router (via wired network) as a standalone device, but can also be an integral component of the router itself. The WAP is differentiated from a hotspot, which is the physical location where Wi-Fi access in a WLAN is available.