When the internet first came into widespread use, you had to connect to the internet through a wire or cord. This meant that you couldn’t get up and move from the desk to the couch unless you had a long enough cord to travel that far. In today’s world of laptops, cellphones, and portable gaming devices, people want to be able to move. The creation of Wi-Fi made this possible.
Wi-Fi allows users to connect their various devices to the internet without the use of cords or wires. To do this, three main components are necessary: an internet connection, a router, and a wireless device. The internet connection is fairly standard, usually coming in the form of DSL or cable internet. You don’t need a particular connection in order to use Wi-Fi. You simply need a working internet connection.
The router is the most important part of a Wi-Fi connection. It’s what gives you Wi-Fi access by sending and receiving wireless data. Routers will have an Ethernet cable socket so that they can be connected to your modem. This is done using an Ethernet cable. There will also be additional sockets for connecting desktop computers. You will be able to connect any computer that is not Wi-Fi equipped through a standard cable. You don’t have to choose either Wi-Fi or wired. Both are possible with a single router.
When purchasing your router, you’ll want to check to make sure it will be compatible with all your wireless devices, not simply your computer. Look for a router that is labeled as ‘802.11 a/b/g/n’. This should be compatible with most devices, both old and new, though there are some exceptions.
You’ll also need to look at range. The range on the box is under ideal conditions, meaning no walls or anything else that might impede the signal. For indoor use, a 100ft range will probably not reach 100ft. Every time the signal has to pass through something, the range will be reduced. For maximum efficiency, purchase a router with a higher range and place it in the middle of your home. Unless you have a very large home, it should be able to cover most locations inside your house.
Before using your Wi-Fi connection, limit access to the internet through your wireless router. This is done by password protecting your connection. There should be instructions for this included with your router. It is a simple process that only takes a moment and is necessary for controlling who can access your Wi-Fi connection.
To use your Wi-Fi connection, you’ll need a wireless device. Most laptops are Wi-Fi compatible as are tablets are other similar devices. Many newer gaming consoles can also use a Wi-Fi connection when in use, and high end cellphones are almost always Wi-Fi equipped. If your device has wireless capability, you should have no problem detecting and using your Wi-Fi connection.
If you don’t want to invest in your own Wi-Fi connection, look for Wi-Fi hotspots. These are frequently found at libraries, restaurants, coffee shops, and most hotels and airports. The vast majority of universities and colleges will also have a free wireless network. With a little investigating, you should be able to find a hotspot that you can use for free.
Wi-Fi is easy to setup and use and quite practical. With wireless connections becoming the norm in most areas, having your own Wi-Fi connection is both economical and progressive.
