Wireless Networks: Overview

Definition and Types

Wireless networks use radio waves to connect devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, to the internet and to each other. There are several types, including:

• Wi-Fi: Most common for local area networking and internet access.
• Bluetooth: Used for short-range communication between devices.
• Cellular Networks: Such as 3G, 4G, and 5G for mobile internet and phone services.
• Zigbee: Used mostly for IoT (Internet of Things) applications, such as smart home devices.

Basic Components

• Access Points (APs): Devices that create wireless local area networks (WLANs), commonly used in homes and businesses.
• Wireless Routers: Combine the functions of an access point with routing and often include additional features, such as firewalls.
• Devices: Smartphones, laptops, tablets, and other devices equipped with wireless adapters to connect to the network.

How Wi-Fi Works

• Transmission: An access point sends out a signal that is received by a wireless device (such as a smartphone).
• Connect: The device connects to the access point.
• Data Exchange: Data is exchanged between the device and the access point to provide internet access.