Wi-Fi is one of the most important technological developments of the modern age. It’s the wireless networking standard that helps us enjoy all the conveniences of modern media and connectivity at the tips of our fingers without astronomical cellular data charges. But what is Wi-Fi, really?
The term “Wi-Fi” is a marketing name, but it stands for “wireless fidelity.” Similar to other wireless connection types, like Bluetooth, it’s a radio transmission technology that’s built upon a set of standards to allow high-speed and secure communications between a wide variety of digital devices, access points, and hardware. It makes it possible for Wi-Fi capable devices to access the internet without the need for restrictive wires.
It can operate over short and long distances, be locked down and secured, or open and free. It’s incredibly versatile and yet is easy enough to use that it’s found in the most popular of consumer devices. Wi-Fi is ubiquitous and exceedingly important for the way we operate our modern connected world.