A wireless network is a group of computers that can share files and other resources with each other over a large area. The most common type of wireless network is one based on Wi-Fi technology, which uses radio waves to transmit data.
Many devices in homes and businesses are now connected to the Internet through wireless networks. This means that people can connect their computers, phones and other devices to the Internet without using cables.
In addition to connecting devices wirelessly, wireless networks allow users to share printers and storage devices so that they don’t have to keep them on their desktops or laptops.
There are many types of wireless technology available today. If you’re looking to buy a new router, you’ll want to make sure it has the right type of radio for your needs. Here’s a rundown of some of the most common types of wireless technology:
Wi-Fi is the most common type of wireless technology found in homes and offices around the world. It uses the 2.4GHz band and supports speeds up to 11Mbps, but newer models can reach up to 300Mbps — more than enough for even high-bandwidth tasks like streaming HD video or online gaming.
N900 is also known as WiMax, but it’s not like Wi-Fi because it uses a different frequency (2.3GHz) and has different maximum speeds (24Mbps). It’s more expensive than Wi-Fi and isn’t quite as widespread yet, so it may not be an option if you need fast Internet access wherever you go.
Bluetooth is a short-range radio technology used primarily for communication between mobile devices, laptops and other computers over relatively short distances (30 feet or less).
Bluetooth connections are typically slower than those made via Wi-Fi or N900 because they’re designed primarily for transferring data at just 1 Mbps over relatively short distances.
Categories of wireless technology
1. Satellite communication
Satellite communication is the transmission of information between two or more points by means of an artificial satellite. The satellite used for communication can be either in a geosynchronous orbit or a low earth orbit.
The use of satellites for communication, commonly known as a space-based communication system, has enabled many technologies that were not possible before, such as satellite television and satellite radio.
Satellites are used for television broadcasting, telephone calls and other forms of communication. Satellites are also used for navigation (GPS), weather forecasting and atmospheric research.
Satellite technologies, like everything else in the field of electronics, have been continuously evolving to keep pace with the ever-increasing demand for more efficient and cost-effective satellites.
Examples of satellite communication
Remote sensing. Remote sensing is the process of collecting and analyzing data from remote locations. Satellites can be used to monitor weather conditions and natural disasters such as forest fires, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, as well as to collect data about crop yields and water levels.
Telecommunications. Telecommunication refers to the transmission of information through a channel or network. Satellite telecommunications uses satellites to transmit information from one location to another over long distances at high speeds. This allows telephone calls, faxes and emails to be sent around the world in seconds instead of minutes or hours.
The Global Positioning System (GPS). GPS is an example of satellite navigation technology that helps people determine their location on Earth by using satellites orbiting our planet. People use GPS for activities such as hiking, boating or flying airplanes because it provides a reliable way to determine where they are in relation to other people or objects on Earth’s surface.
2. Infrared communication
Infrared communication, which is also called infrared transmission, uses infrared light to transmit messages between devices. Infrared communication is a type of optical communication that uses the infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Infrared light has a frequency that falls between visible red light and microwave radiation. It’s also just above the microwave range where water vapor and carbon dioxide absorb energy, so this area of the spectrum is often used for long-distance terrestrial communications.
The main advantage of infrared communication is that it doesn’t require line-of-sight between devices. This makes it ideal for military applications and surveillance systems.
Infrared signals can also travel through window glass and other transparent materials, so they’re useful in situations where radio waves would otherwise be blocked by walls or other obstacles.
Examples of infrared communication
Remote controls. Remote control devices transmit commands via IR signals. For example, your TV remote sends instructions to your television via IR signals. The same applies to other household appliances like microwaves and air conditioners. This technology has been around since the 1960s and continues to be used today because it works well and requires no wires between devices.
IR sensors. IR sensors are used in many home security systems, such as burglar alarms or smoke detectors, in order to detect when an intrusion occurs or fire starts. These sensors send out an infrared signal that bounces off objects at varying angles depending on their distance from the sensor itself; this allows it to determine exactly where any movement is taking place around it so it can send out an alert if necessary.
3. Broadcast radio communication
Broadcast radio communication is a system in which a broadcaster transmits the same signal at the same time to multiple receivers.
The broadcast medium may be a wire or cable, but it is now increasingly wireless. Broadcast radio is an old technology, dating back to radio’s roots in the early 20th century.
In its infancy, broadcast radio was used to transmit music and news from one location to another. As time went on, many different types of broadcasts were created and developed to suit different needs and interests.
Today’s broadcast radio includes talk shows, sports events, weather forecasts, traffic reports, emergency broadcasts and much more.
Uses for broadcast radio communication
Broadcast radio communication can be used for many purposes. It can be used for entertainment purposes or commercial advertising purposes or even for public safety purposes, such as emergency alerts and disaster warnings.
The use of broadcast radio communications depends on local regulations and laws, but most countries allow broadcasters to transmit up-to-date information regarding natural disasters such as hurricanes or earthquakes so that people can take appropriate action before it becomes too late for them to do so.
Examples of broadcast radio communication
Interviews. Radio is one of the most effective ways to reach your audience. It’s quick, easy and inexpensive. A talk show that features a guest expert from your industry can be a great way to get your message out there.
Public service announcements (PSAs). PSAs are a great way to spread the word about an upcoming event or issue that affects your business or community. These can be produced in-house or outsourced to an agency.
Public affairs programming. If your company has a philanthropic side, it might be worthwhile to have programming devoted to this aspect of your business.
4. Wi-Fi technology
Wi-Fi is a wireless communications technology that uses radio waves to provide high-speed Internet and network connections. It’s often used in homes, offices and public areas.
Wi-Fi transmitters — also called “base stations” — send and receive data using radio waves. To use Wi-Fi, you need to connect a device like a laptop or smartphone to the Internet using an access point (AP).
An AP can be set up by your internet service provider, or it can connect directly to the Internet through a cable or DSL modem. Some devices have built-in Wi-Fi antennas that let you connect to APs from a short distance away, while others require an adapter with an antenna that plugs into your device’s USB port.
Wi-Fi networks can be set up either as “open” or “closed.” Open networks are publicly available so anyone with a compatible device can join them and access the Internet through them; closed networks are password protected and only allow people who know the password to access them.
Related: Can You Take your Wifi Box or Router to Another House?
Examples of WI-FI technology
Home networks. Home networks allow you to access the internet over your home Wi-Fi connection. You can connect multiple devices to the same network, such as laptops, smartphones and tablets.
Wireless hotspots. Many cafes and restaurants offer Wi-Fi hotspots for their customers’ use. These hotspots allow you to connect your device to the internet without using your own data plan or paying for access at the cafe or restaurant itself (which can get expensive). Some airports also offer free Wi-Fi hotspots so you can stay connected while traveling!
Wi-Fi Direct. Wi-Fi Direct is a peer-to-peer wireless networking technology that allows devices to connect without using an access point (AP).
Wi-Fi Direct can be used for content sharing, file transfers, and device pairing with no need for Internet access or an AP. The Wi-Fi Alliance has defined new Wi-Fi certification programs for devices implementing Wi-Fi Direct.
Wireless USB. Wireless USB (also known as WiUSB) is another way of connecting peripherals over the air, and it’s becoming increasingly popular as more devices come with wireless cards preinstalled. You’ll find wireless USB adapters for sale at most electronics stores and online retailers.
5. Microwave communication
Microwave communication is the transmission of messages by modulating electromagnetic waves in the microwave frequency band.
Microwaves are a form of electromagnetic radiation, with frequencies from roughly 300 MHz (0.3 GHz) up to 300 GHz. The IEEE defines the broad range of frequencies from 0.3 to 3 GHz as “microwave”, and above 3 GHz as “millimeter wave”.
Microwaves travel by line-of-sight transmission, which restricts them to short range communications, typically to an altitude of between 20 and 80 km.
This means that they must be aimed at an area rather than directly at an individual. They can pass through many physical obstructions such as buildings and trees that would attenuate typical radio waves.
They also tend to reflect off metal objects like cars and buildings, limiting the directionality of the signal. However, they can be focused by high gain antennas on narrow beams (e.g., for satellite communication) or spread out over wide areas (e.g., for aircraft navigation).
This allows them to be used in point-to-point links where there is no opportunity for a direct line-of-sight path between transmitter and receiver (such as mobile telephone links).
6. Bluetooth technology
Bluetooth technology is a short-range wireless connection technology that enables the exchange of data between devices. The Bluetooth standard was developed by Ericsson, Nokia and Intel in 1994 to replace cables in mobile phones.
Today it’s used by billions of devices every day and has become an integral part of our lives. Bluetooth is used for many things, from connecting a phone to a car stereo system to pairing your smartphone with your smartwatch.
How does Bluetooth technology work?
Bluetooth works by using radio frequency (RF) signals to send information between devices over a distance of up to 100 meters (328 feet), but the range can vary depending on factors like interference from other wireless devices and physical barriers such as walls or doors.
One device acts as the transmitter, sending out an RF signal that another device — known as the receiver — receives and converts into usable data.
A Bluetooth adapter connects your computer or laptop to other devices like speakers or keyboards wirelessly via RF signals instead of USB cables or wires.
Examples of Bluetooth technology
Wireless headphones. Headphones are one of the most common ways to use Bluetooth technology, especially if you’re an avid runner or biker who wants a hands-free experience while exercising. These headphones allow you to listen to music without having to carry your phone or MP3 player with you as you go about your day.
Wireless speakers. Wireless speakers are another way that people use Bluetooth technology on a daily basis. They’re convenient for parties and get-togethers because they allow users to play music from their phones or other devices without having to worry about wires getting tangled up or tripping over them.
Wireless keyboards. If you own a laptop or desktop computer and want an easier way of typing up documents and emails, then a wireless keyboard might be ideal for you!
Mobile phones. Most smartphones have built-in Bluetooth radios that let them connect wirelessly with other devices such as headphones and speakers. If you want to listen to music or make a phone call while exercising outside or driving your car, this can be very convenient.
Smartwatches. The Apple Watch has its own cellular connection so it doesn’t need to be paired with an iPhone. However, future Android Wear watches may not have cellular capabilities and may rely on Bluetooth instead — just like most smartwatches do today.