- Do you understand how Wi-Fi works?
- Wi-Fi is a feature of your modem, not your service.
- Learn the difference between Wi-Fi and mobile wireless broadband
Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that allows devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets to connect to the Internet without the need for physical cables. It works by sending signals from a router, which translates Internet data into a form your device can understand and use.
This signal is transmitted through the air, making it convenient for multiple devices to connect to the Internet from anywhere within range of the router. Whether you're browsing the web, streaming videos, or working remotely, Wi-Fi makes it easy to stay connected.
Understanding how Wi-Fi works can help you choose the right home Wi-Fi plan that suits your needs, ensuring you get the best Internet experience possible.
Here's a simple breakdown of how Wi-Fi operates and how you can make the most of it at home.
What is Wi-Fi exactly?
Wi-Fi stands for "Wireless Fidelity." It was created by the Wi-Fi Alliance, a global organisation that sets standards for Wi-Fi technology.
This group works closely with the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), a U.S. organisation that creates electronic standards used worldwide.
Wi-Fi works using radio waves, similar to the way radios and mobile phones operate. However, instead of using lower frequencies like Kilohertz (kHz) or Megahertz (MHz), Wi-Fi operates at much higher frequencies in the Gigahertz (GHz) range.
Essentially, Wi-Fi uses two-way communication between devices. The router and your device both have radios that send and receive data over short distances.
This allows you to upload and download information, whether you're browsing a website or sending an email, making Wi-Fi a key part of modern Internet use.
Different Wi-Fi standards
Wi-Fi standards are set by the IEEE under the 802.11 series. When purchasing a router or any Wi-Fi-enabled device (like a laptop, phone, or printer), the supported Wi-Fi standard is usually listed.
These standards used to be identified by technical names like 802.11n or 802.11ac, but today it is more commonly referred to by generation, such as Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6, or the latest, Wi-Fi 7.
With each new Wi-Fi generation, devices can deliver faster speeds, cover longer distances, and support more connections. Upgrading to a newer router can significantly improve your Internet speed and the quality of your Wi-Fi signal.
For example, a router using the older 802.11n standard can offer speeds up to 72 Mbit/s, whereas a Wi-Fi 6 router can deliver up to 574 Mbit/s, making it almost 8 times faster.
Newer Wi-Fi standards also introduce technical improvements that help manage the growing number of smart devices in modern homes. You don’t necessarily need the latest version, but if your router is outdated, upgrading to a newer model can greatly enhance performance and reliability.
What are the different Wi-Fi generations?
| Wi-Fi generation | IEEE Standard | Adopted | Maximum link rate |
| Wi-Fi 0* | 802.11 or 802.11-1997 | 1997 | 1-2Mbps |
| Wi-Fi 1* | 802.11b | 1999 | 1-11Mbps |
| Wi-Fi 2* | 802.11a | 1999 | 6-54Mbps |
| Wi-Fi 3* | 802.11g | 2003 | 6-54Mbps |
| Wi-Fi 4 | 802.11n | 2008 | 72-600Mbps |
| Wi-Fi 5 | 802.11ac | 2014 | 433-6933Mbps |
| Wi-Fi 6/Wi-Fi 6E | 802.11ax | 2019/2020 | 574-9608Mbps |
| Wi-Fi 7 | 802.11be | (2024) | 1376-46120Mbps |
Source: The Evolution of Wi-Fi networks: from IEEE 802.11 to Wi-Fi 6E
* not official name
What’s the difference between Wi-Fi and ethernet?
Wi-Fi and Ethernet are two ways to connect your devices to the Internet or create a local network. Wi-Fi is wireless, sending data through radio waves, while Ethernet relies on physical cables for data transmission.
Wi-Fi offers the convenience of mobility, allowing you to connect without being tied down by cables. However, Ethernet tends to be more reliable and stable, providing a more consistent connection and better security. It also generally reduces latency, which can be important for activities like gaming or video calls.
The speed of both Wi-Fi and Ethernet depends on the quality of the equipment you use, such as your router, Wi-Fi adapter, Ethernet cable, and other network devices. Each has its pros and cons, so your choice depends on your needs for convenience, speed, and reliability.
What do you need to use Wi-Fi?
To access Wi-Fi at home, you’ll need two main things: a wireless router and a device that can connect to Wi-Fi. Most routers provided by your Internet service provider (ISP) come with Wi-Fi capabilities, and you just need to activate it.
If your current router doesn't support Wi-Fi, you can purchase one and easily connect it to your ISP’s router using an Ethernet cable. Even affordable routers can handle everyday Internet needs.
For larger homes, your ISP’s router might not cover every corner, leading to weak signals or dead spots. If this is an issue, you can improve coverage with mesh routers or Wi-Fi range extenders to boost the signal throughout your home.
As for devices, most modern phones, laptops, and tablets are Wi-Fi-enabled, allowing you to connect seamlessly. If you have an older desktop computer without Wi-Fi capability, you can still use Wi-Fi by adding a Wi-Fi adapter.
To connect to public Wi-Fi, like at a café or library, all you need is a Wi-Fi-capable device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, which most people already have.
Wi-Fi vs. home wireless broadband: What’s the difference?
Wi-Fi and home wireless broadband are often confused, but both serve different purposes. Here’s a breakdown of the differences:
Wi-Fi is a technology that allows devices like phones, tablets, and laptops to connect wirelessly to a local network, usually inside your home. It’s a way to access the Internet through a router connected to your home’s broadband service. Wi-Fi covers short distances and is used within homes, offices, or public places to connect multiple devices to the Internet.
Home Wireless Broadband, on the other hand, refers to a type of Internet connection that doesn’t rely on traditional wired infrastructure like fibre or copper cables. Instead, it uses the mobile network (4G or 5G) to deliver Internet directly to your home via a wireless modem or router. It’s an alternative to fixed-line broadband services like NBN, often used in areas without wired connections or by people who want a portable Internet solution.
Key differences:
Connection source:
- Wi-Fi: Connects devices to the Internet wirelessly within your home using a fixed broadband connection.
- Home wireless broadband: Connects your home to the Internet using mobile data (4G/5G) networks instead of fixed cables.
Portability:
- Wi-Fi: Limited to a fixed location, such as your home or office.
- Home wireless broadband: More portable, as you can move the wireless modem/router and still get Internet anywhere there’s mobile network coverage.
Usage:
- Wi-Fi: Typically provides local wireless Internet access within a short range.
- Home wireless broadband: Offers Internet access without needing traditional wired infrastructure, useful in remote or rural areas or when mobility is important.
In short, Wi-Fi refers to how devices connect within your home, whole home wireless broadband refers to how your home gets Internet access through a mobile network.
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