Just about everyone remotely interested in computers has heard of Wi-Fi. Much less people know of what it is, what it stands for, or what it does. It has many applications in home and business life- so it is important to know about this bit of technology.

The Wi-Fi revolution started when the branded name was used to describe the wireless local area network technology that was being developed. It has been used in keyboards, phones, cars, televisions, and many more applications. It is the technology that lets two or more electrical devices ‘communicate’ with one another.

Modernly, the term is used to describe internet access- but it should be noted it has many other uses. (The Nintendo Wii being named after the technology, being a good example of gaming applications)

Typically, the process involves setting up an access point, or AP. The AP will transmit information to computer in range of its frequency, and usually can do so with great speed. This lets you set up LAN’s without the dreadful wiring, and take advantage of ‘hot spots’, or public internet access points.

The only drawback is that it drains batteries, if they are being used. Information can sometimes be intercepted, if you are running it on an un-secure transmission. If you have experience, and can properly set up your own Wi-Fi point, you should be perfectly fine. Otherwise, get a professional to do it- no need to risk an intrusion.

The benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, and in the future it seems that Wi-Fi will become a standard. It is good to get to know the technology now, rather than wait until later and be lost. If you are tech savvy, this is the perfect way to clear the messy, tangled wires at your next LAN.