WiFi is a cellular computer network that sends and receives data via radio signals instead of cables. These days, WiFi is featured more widely in both the home and office, and it is also gaining popularity in public areas like transit terminals, airports, coffee outlets and university campuses. Creative ways to utilize the true potential of WiFi are allowing for a more conducive, efficient and
effective environment for work, collaboration and communication. Increased mobility, and with the absence of network cabling and other fixed infrastructure have paved ever increasing benefits for many users.
Users of WiFi can draw on the same applications and services as they do on wired networks. WiFi cards fitted on to mobile and desktop systems support the same protocols as wired network cards.
Under many conditions, mobile devices are encouraged to link with conventional wired networks for use of server, storage and printing services or an Internet connection supplied through the wired network. A wireless router is used to provide this link.
WiFi technology is planned and implemented for different reasons. They include:
Mobility - Productivity increases when information can be accessed from any location at any time within the operating environment of the wireless network. Management and strategic decisions made based on real-time information can significantly improve worker efficiency and effectiveness in addition to reducing costs.
Low Implementation Costs - WiFi is easy to implement, manage, change and relocate. Networks that frequently change physically and logically, can benefit from WiFi's ease of setup, modification and transition. WiFi can operate in environments where installation of wired networks may not be practical or cost effective.
Fast and Simple Installation - Installing a wireless network is fast and easy, eliminating the hassle of cabling through walls (horizontal trunking) and ceilings (vertical trunking).
Network Expansion - WiFi allows a network to go where cables may not be able or impractical to go. Additional transceivers can be arranged for a wider signal coverage while mobile devices are connected seamlessly to the network with just simple configurations made to their equipment.
Scalability - WiFi can be configured in a variety of topologies to meet the requirements of specific applications or to be incorporated into existing network infrastructures. Configurations can be easily modified and may range from peer-to-peer networks, suitable for users that are small in number, to large infrastructures that could accommodate hundreds or thousands of users.
